GARDAÍ AT PEARSE Street in Dublin have asked for any witnesses to an incident on Grand Canal Quay last night to contact them.

A 56-year-old man, an employee of a private waste disposal company, became trapped in the rear of a waste disposal vehicle at about 11.50pm.

Fire crews used emergency equipment to release the man from the back of the vehicle and he was removed to St James Hospital, where he died a short time later.

Anyone with any information has been urged to contact Pearse Street Garda Station on 01 666 9000 or the confidential line on 1 800 666 111.

It is understood that the driver of the truck has received treatment for shock. Investigations by both the gardaí and Health and Safety Authority have begun.

Ozo said the death was a sudden and tragic loss. In a statement on its website, the company said it was “devastated”.

It is with heartbroken emotions that we have to make this announcement on behalf of all his friends and colleagues at the company. Due to this unforeseen tragedy we have released our service employees from their duties, as many of our colleagues are suffering from shock and upset and we appreciate your understanding that we may not be in a position to provide our full normal service at this moment in time.

“Our sincere condolences to his family, relatives, friends and work colleagues at this very sad time.”