Remains of Perth construction accident victims could be home 'within days'
It is hoped that the remains of two Irish construction workers killed in Australia could be brought home within days.
Joe McDermott and Gerry Bradley were crushed when a concrete slab fell off a lorry at the Bennett Street apartment site in East Perth.
Tragic news from Australia. Deaths of 2 young Irish men. Joe McDermott from Omagh & Gerry Bradley, Portstewart. RIP pic.twitter.com/q6vNMIg2ZE
— Irish Unity 🇮🇪🇵🇸 (@IrishUnity) November 25, 2015
Joe, from Omagh, had just moved to Australia several weeks ago.
Gerry Bradley, a 27-year-old from Portstewart, had been living there for around two years.
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Irishman who died in Perth construction site accident was due home for Christmas
Fr Brendan Mulhall, Gerry's parish priest, said that there has been an outpouring of grief in the Co Derry town.
"They're heartbroken, absolutely heartbroken, and I guess extremely shocked as well," he said.
"But thankfully he has a very large family and lots of support from the local community.
"I've no doubt that people will rally round them and offer them every support possible."
The entire 100+ workforce of JAXON Construction observed a minute’s silence today as a tribute to two sub-contractors who lost their lives in the accident.
Members of the company's board and other employees visited the site to lay a wreath in memory of the men.
“We have contacted the men’s families to offer our deepest sympathies,” said JAXON CEO David Dodds.
“These young men were treasured sons, brothers, loved-ones and their loss is being deeply felt.
“The Irish community in Perth is also mourning the loss of these young men and our workforce shares their deep sense of shock and grief.”
