Publication date:
A man and a business have been sentenced at Newry Crown Court today following the death of Ian McCollum in January 2022.
Mr McCollum was fatally injured while working at McKinstry Biomass Ltd in Newry on 24 January 2022.
Walter Thomas Christopher Manley was sentenced to three years and four months for manslaughter and to 12 months for breach of health and safety legislation, to be served concurrently. Half will be served in custody and half will be served on licence.
McKinstry Biomass Ltd received a fine of £120,000 for failing to ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees, failing to conduct their undertaking in such a way as to ensure the health and safety of persons not in their employment and failing to make appropriate risk assessment for employees.
PPS Senior Public Prosecutor Michael McDaid said:
“Ian McCollum was a much-loved husband and father. His death was tragic and avoidable.
“My thoughts are with Mr McCollum’s family today. I want to thank them for their understanding throughout this process.
“We worked closely with the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland and the PSNI to put this case before the court. Their detailed and thorough investigation made this prosecution possible, ensuring justice was served for Mr McCollum’s family.
“Mr McCollum’s family should be planning their future together. Instead, they are mourning. I hope the conclusion of these proceedings brings some comfort to them.
“This case shows the crucial importance of adhering to health and safety law – and shows that we will prosecute those who breach it.
“Workers have a right to work in a safe environment. Safety should be the top priority for all employers.
“When employers fall short, we will work with our enforcement partners to build a robust case and prosecute alleged health and safety offences, where the Test for Prosecution is met.”