Wexford TD pays tribute to Billy Kinsella who died while clearing debris from Storm Eunice

The 59-year-old died after being fatally injured by a falling tree while clearing up following storm damage near the Wicklow-Wexford border.

“RIP Billy Kinsella, in carrying out his work to ensure the safety of others, clearing debris, Billy lost his life,” Ms Murphy’s tribute began.

“In expressing sincere sympathy to his wife Rita, his son Conor, work colleagues at Wexford Co Co, his extended family, friends and wider community at this very sad time, united in grief.

"Go Raibh Suaimhneas Síoraí Air."

A neighbour of the Kinsella family, Wexford County Councillor Anthony Donohue, described Billy as a hard-working father.

“If he could do anything for you he would. As a community, we’re just devastated,” he told sundayworld.com .

“I haven’t got to see his family yet, but his wife Rita and his son Conor, they must be just devastated.”

“It is the second tragedy in the space of hours, we’re completely numb,” he said.

“My other neighbour, a mother of one, just didn’t wake up this morning.

“They live just a kilometre for each other, so the community is reeling.”

Wexford TD James Browne also paid tribute to the father of one: "Very sad news about the Wexford County Council worker who was fatally injured during Storm Eunice today.

"I want to extend my deepest sympathies to his family, colleagues and community at this very sad time."

"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam," he added.

TD Simon Harris said: "Such sad news emerging from the Wicklow-Wexford border this afternoon.

"My thoughts are with the man’s family, friends and community after such a tragic accident."

Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene but Mr Kinsella was later pronounced dead and the man’s body was transferred to Waterford University Hospital for a post-mortem.

A Gardaí spokesperson said in a statement: “Gardaí and emergency services attended a fatal incident this morning, 18th February 2022 in the Ballythomas area of Co. Wexford.

“It is understood that a man, aged in his 60s, was injured as a result of a falling tree. The man was later pronounced deceased at the scene.

“The body of the man will be removed to Waterford University Hospital where a post-mortem will take place in due course. The Health Safety Authority (HSA) have been notified and are due to attend the scene.”