Farming community in shock after Spence tragedy
The tragic death of a young rugby star, his brother and their father in a slurry tank accident has left the farming community in Northern Ireland in deep shock.
Ulster rugby star Nevin Spence, 22, his brother Graham, 30, and their 52-year-old father Noel were killed in a farming tragedy that has sent shockwaves across the industry.
The Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is investigating the cause of the accident at a family farm in Hillsborough, County Down on Saturday (15 September).
Investigators are investigating reports that Noel had gone into the slurry pit to rescue a pet dog and Graham, followed by Nevin, went to the aid of their father.
All three died after being overcome by poisonous fumes in a slurry tunnel.
Nevin’s sister Emma, who survived the accident, has been released from hospital.
In a statement, devastated family members said: “The three men were very close to each other in life, and that love was expressed in their final moments trying to help one another.”
On Monday (17 September) hundreds of fans turned up to sign books of condolence at Nevin’s rugby club, Ballyhnahinch, and the Ulster rugby headquarters at Ravenhill.
Ulster Farmers’ Union president Harry Sinclair said the loss of three members of the Spence family has had a profound effect on the farming community.
“On behalf of all our members, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family involved,” said Mr Sinclair.
“This news has shocked the farming community. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the three men who have so tragically lost their lives.”
Since the accident, many farmers have contacted the UFU to discuss farm safety. The UFU has also received messages of support for the family from across the British Isles.
“This is heartening and these messages will be passed on to the family,” added Mr Sinclair.
The UFU, along with its farm safety partners in Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture and Development (DARD) and HSENI are urging all farmers to assess the dangers on their farms and take action now to ensure their workplace is as safe as possible.
Following the tragedy, the NFU has reminded its members about the dangers of slurry gases, such as hydrogen sulphide, which can cause unconsciousness and suffocation very quickly and can be present in significant quantities.
NFU vice president Adam Quinney said: “We are deeply saddened to hear the tragic news regarding these deaths and our heartfelt sympathies go out to the family. This type of accident happens all too often and is a stark reminder of the dangers of working with slurry.
“We don’t know the precise causes of the accident but we urge farm businesses to review the safety equipment that is available next to slurry tanks for use in emergencies.”
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