Matrix Ship Management Ltd. fined €200,000 following a fatal workplace incident

Friday, 6 November 2026

On Thursday, 5 November 2026, Matrix Ship Management Ltd. of Limassol, Cyprus was convicted and fined €200,000 by Judge Cormac Quinn at Wexford Circuit Court, after pleading guilty to breaches of safety, health and welfare at work legislation.

The case arose following a fatal work-related incident which occurred on 21 March 2019 at Rosslare Europort, Rosslare, Co Wexford. Mr. Sergejs Lescenko, a crew member on board the Irish Ferries MV Isle of Inishmore, was fatally injured when he was crushed between two trailers during loading operations on Deck 3 of the vessel.

Matrix Ship Management Ltd. had previously pleaded guilty to one breach of safety, health and welfare at work legislation in relation to the provision of systems of work that are safe and without risk to health.

Judge Cormac Quinn imposed a fine of €200,000 on the breach of Section 8(2)(e) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 contrary to Section 77(9)(a).

Assistant Chief Executive Officer at the HSA, Eibhlin O’Leary, said:

“This tragic incident demonstrates the serious consequences that can arise when risks associated with workplace transport are not adequately controlled. Employers must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that safe systems of work are in place and effectively implemented to protect workers. Where vehicles and workers operate in close proximity, robust controls are essential to prevent serious injury and loss of life.”