A Kilclief farmer has been killed in a farm accident at around 5.30pm this evening.
The news of the death of Pat Curran, in his seventies, has shocked the County Down farming and the wider community. Currently the NI Health and Safety Executive (NIHSE) are investigating the scene and the area is closed off. It is thought that the accident was caused as he worked with slurry at his tractor.
Down News will update this post as further news breaks, but at 1pm Tuesday 23rd December, the NIHSE explained that they were still conducting their investigation and that “Our thoughts are with the family at this most difficult time.”
Ritchie Says Farmer’s Tragic Death Will Be Felt Across Entire Community
South Down MP Margaret Ritchie has expressed her sympathies with the family of the man killed on a farm earlier today.
Ms Ritchie said: “This is a tragic accident that has devastated a family and the entire farming community in South Down. I know the Mr Curran’s family and offer my condolences to his sisters, brother and wider family as they try to come to terms with his death.
“He was a fine, upstanding member of the Strangford/Kilclief community and had been in farming his entire life. He was a pillar of the community and he will be sadly missed.
“This part of the world is made up of people who come together at times of crisis and I know the people he touched will rally around his loved ones to offer comfort and support.
“It is a desperately sad occasion coming at a time which adds immeasurably to the emotional pain, and my thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Bailie Expresses Her Sorrow At Loss Of County Down Farmer
Newry Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson Naomi Bailie (Sinn Féin) has expressed her deep sorrow at the death of one of County Down’s well known farmers. She said: “This is so tragic coming up to Christmas. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very sad time. I understand that Pat Curran is an elderly man in his seventies, very well know in his community and much respected.
“Presently the nights are long and and farming is as always a difficult and dangerous task. The NIHSE will conduct a thorough investigation into his death. The whole community from Strangford and Kilclief and beyond are slowly learning of this terrible accident and are in shock.”
McGrath Touched By Sadness at Kilclief Sudden Death Accident
Downpatrick Councillor Colin McGrath has said he is sad at the news that an elderly gentleman has died suddenly on a Downpatrick farm.
Commenting on the death of Pat Curran, the SDLP Councillor said: “This is shocking news especially at this Christmas time. A family that should be gathering in celebration will be instead gathering in sadness.
“I understand that the NI Health and Safety Executive are investigating the surroundings of this incident and this only underscores the difficult job that those who work in our agricultural industry undertake.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Mr Curran’s family at this time. I would urge the community to rally and provide any support that they need.”
Rogers Saddened By Tragic Death At Kilclief
South Down SDLP MLA Seán Rogers has spoken out following the devastating news that farmer Pat Curran has died in Kilclief on Monday evening. Mr Rogers said: “This is shattering news for a local family. “I know only too well the pressures that farmers are under at the moment. My thoughts and prayers are with this family at this awfully difficult time.” ]]>
