Northern Ireland

NIE employee who died following incident at Co Armagh substation described as `a character'

Tributes have been paid to Castledawson man Richard Scott, a NIE employee, who died yesterday morning as a result of an incident at Drumnakelly main substation on the Mahon Road in Portadown
Tributes have been paid to Castledawson man Richard Scott, a NIE employee, who died yesterday morning as a result of an incident at Drumnakelly main substation on the Mahon Road in Portadown Tributes have been paid to Castledawson man Richard Scott, a NIE employee, who died yesterday morning as a result of an incident at Drumnakelly main substation on the Mahon Road in Portadown

A Co Derry man who died in an incident at an electricity substation has been described as someone who was "always very professional and disciplined".

Richard Scott, who was an NIE employee, died yesterday morning at Drumnakelly main substation on the Mahon Road in Portadown.

An investigation has been launched into the death of he 33-year-old Castledawson man.

Paul Stapleton, Managing Director at NIE Networks, described Mr Scott as a "highly respected" member of the team.

"We have been speaking with Richard’s family over the last 24 hours and our deepest sympathies are with them at this incredibly difficult time," he said.

"Richard was a highly respected member of our team and his loss will be felt deeply across NIE Networks. Investigations by both the Health and Safety Executive and NIE Networks are underway into the circumstances of the incident".

Social media was also filled with tributes to Mr Scott, who was a well-known football referee.

Trevor Moutray, from the Irish Football Association, said Mr Scott would be remembered as one of "the characters within our ranks".

"He gave a number of years of excellent service to the local game as an assistant referee and his experience was rewarded with a number of high profile appointments during this time, including national finals," he said.

"The thoughts of the IFA's refereeing family are with the Scott family and close friends at this very tragic time."

A number of football clubs also posted tributes on social media, including Draperstown Celtic, Armagh City FC and Newry City FC saying they were both "shocked" and "saddened" to learn of Mr Scott's sudden death.

The NI Football League also said it was "deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Richard Scott, a popular and respected match official in the league".

Maghera Cricket Club said it was "devastated" to learn of the tragedy involving their former player.

"Those who played with 'Lara' have been reminiscing on WhatsApp and we have so many fond memories. What a character he was".

Dunamoney Flute Band also posted on Facebook stating that Mr Scott had tragically "lost his life doing the job he loved".

"Richard was a dedicated member of the band for in excess of 15 years, his commitment to the band will be sorely missed.

"He was always very proud to take the outside corner of the ranks and was always very professional and disciplined when he put the uniform on".

Unite the Union described what had happened its member as "incredibly sad news".

The union said it be offering its "full support" to Mr Scott's family and colleagues in the days ahead.