AN MP has called on Scottish authorities to allow the body of an Irish lorry driver fatally injured on a construction site to be returned to his family for burial as soon as possible.
An investigation has been launched following the death of Irishman Conor Morgan on a building site in Scotland last week.
Margaret Ritchie, SDLP MP for South Down, urged the Scottish authories to now expedite the process so that the father-of-three's funeral can take place in Northern Ireland.
Offering her sympathies to the Morgan family following the tragic death in Lanarkshire, she said: “I was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death last week of Conor Morgan from Kilcoo in Lanarkshire.
"I offer my deepest sympathies to Conor’s widow, Shirleen, his children, his mum, sisters and brothers at this difficult and challenging time.
"Death is always sad but when somebody dies in tragic circumstances it is more poignant and difficult for the family.
"I know that the strong bonds of family and community friendship in Kilcoo will embrace and support the Morgan family in their bereavement and loss.
"I hope that the Scottish authorities will speed up the process which will enable the return of Conor to his beloved family for burial."
Mr Morgan, 45, originally from the Kilcoo area in south Co. Down, was a lorry driver for ReGen Waste in Northern Ireland and had travelled to South Lanarkshire in Scotland for work.
Shortly before 10am on Wednesday, April 19, police and emergency services responded to reports of a man having been seriously injured while working on a Avant Homes site close to Shott Farm on Hamilton Road, Blantyre.
Paramedics attended, however Mr Morgan was pronounced dead at the scene. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
An Avant Homes spokesman said: “Our thoughts and condolences are with Conor’s family and loved ones at this very sad time.
“An investigation was launched immediately and we are currently assisting the police and Health and Safety Executive with their enquiries.
“As the investigation is ongoing we are unable to provide any further comment, other than to reiterate our deepest sympathies to all affected by this tragic event.”
Mr Morgan's employer, ReGen Waste said: "It is with much sadness and deep regret that we confirm that our employee Conor Morgan was fatally injured in a tragic accident in Scotland.
"An investigation into what happened is currently underway.
"We would like to extend our heartfelt sympathies to Conor’s family and circle of friends. Conor was a popular employee and will be sadly missed by the entire ReGen family."
Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazard also expressed his sympathy to the family of Conor Morgan, saying: "The news of this sudden death has shocked the local community.
"Conor was very popular and friendly, he was well liked by everybody in the wider Kilcoo area.
"I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his wife and young family at this tough time."
The Health and Safety Executive have been informed and a report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
A spokesman for HSE said: “HSE are aware of this incident and we are assisting Police Scotland with their enquiries at this time.”
