The young Donegal father killed in a tragic workplace accident in Australia this morning has been named as Barry Breslin.
The 35-year-old from Straleel, Kilcar, is believed to have been struck by an excavator in Perth’s northern suburbs.
The incident happened just before midday local time (around 5 am Irish time) while roadworks were taking place.
He sustained serious head injuries and was taken by ambulance to Royal Perth Hospital where he died a short time later, according to The West Australian.
A father of a young boy, Tommy (3), the late Mr Breslin was engaged to Irish woman Melissa Taheny and had been living and working in Western Australia for a number of years.
His brother, Owen, is also living in the country and is believed to have travelled to Perth this afternoon.
Speaking to Donegal Daily, local Parish Priest, Fr Willie Peoples, said he had visited Barry’s heartbroken parents, Seamus and Mary (née Byrne), as soon as the news broke.
“They were in a haze when I spoke to them, just devastated,” Fr Peoples said.
“It’s too early to know what exactly happened as word is just seeping out. It could be a while until the family gets the remains home – it’s a long process of return.”
The late Mr Breslin was a hugely popular member of the local community in south west Donegal and played at underage level for Kilcar GAA club. His mother, Mary, is well known in GAA circles all over the county.
In a statement released a short time ago, Kilcar GAA said it was a ‘great shock to us all’ when the news broke of the untimely passing of Barry in Australia.
“Barry played underage for the club for many years and is fondly remembered by the players and all who were involved at the time and to his mother Mary, a tireless volunteer and supporter of our club over the years, our hearts go out to you and your family and we pass on our prayers to you all at this sad time, ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
Funeral arrangements will be published later.
The following death notice has been posted on RIP.ie:
‘The tragic death has occurred of Barry Breslin following an accident in Perth, Australia. Beloved father to his son Tommy.
Sadly missed by his loving Fiancée, Melissa, his parents Mary and Seamus, his brothers Owen (Beth & Hazel) and Shane (Gerard). House private until further notice.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.’
Tags: