Limerick City and County Council have confirmed the tragic deaths of two men in Limerick city this afternoon.
Three men were plunged into the River Shannon this afternoon when a cage shackled to a crane came loose. The workers were in the cage at the time, working on maintenance of the city’s Thomond Bridge.
All three men were wearing life jackets and safety harnesses which tethered them to a cage. A third man managed to release himself and was able to swim to shore.
Despite the best efforts of members of Limerick Marine Search and Rescue and medical personnel at the scene and later at University Hospital Limerick, two men tragically lost their lives.
A statement offered by Limerick City and County Council this afternoon reads:
Limerick City and County Council re: incident in Limerick City
It is with deep regret that Limerick City and County Council can confirm that two employees of a firm contracted to undertake remedial works to Thomond Bridge in Limerick City have died in a workplace incident this afternoon (Saturday).
The Council is liaising with An Garda Síochána and the Health & Safety Authority in relation to the incident.
The Thomond Bridge is presently undergoing remedial works, which commenced on Monday last.
Limerick City and County Council wishes to extend its deepest sympathies to the families and colleagues of the deceased.
Images via @ThumundLark on Twitter
