Donegal records joint-highest number of workplace fatalities in 2025

Donegal recorded the joint-most number of workplace fatalities in the country for 2025, after six people passed away from workplace incidents this year.

The toll of half a dozen workplace fatalities within Donegal was only equalled by Dublin and Cork, two counties with a considerably higher population than Donegal.

Carlow and Monaghan were the only counties among the 26 counties measured that did not record a workplace fatality in 2025.

The provisional figures, published by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), showed that 58 people died in work-related incidents in Ireland during 2025, representing a 61% increase on the 36 who died in 2024.

With 23 deaths, the agriculture sector continues to account for the highest number of fatalities, representing 40% of all work-related fatalities last year from a sector employing approximately 4% of the workforce.

The construction sector recorded 10 fatalities compared to 5 in 2024, while 5 fatalities were recorded in the manufacturing sector, compared to none last year.

Amongst the fatalities in Donegal in 2025 came from incidents in Buncrana, Newtowncunningham and Ballyshannon.

READ NEXT: Speeding and drink driving offences significantly increase in Donegal

Commenting on the figures, Mark Cullen, Chief Executive Officer of the Health and Safety Authority, said:  “The increase in work-related fatalities in 2025 is deeply concerning.  Every death is a tragedy, and each one represents a life lost and a family devastated.  

“We recorded our lowest ever fatality rate in 2024 and, while annual figures can fluctuate, this sharp rise serves as a stark reminder that employers and workers alike must stay vigilant and avoid complacency when it comes to workplace safety.

“The fact that so many fatalities continue to involve machinery or vehicles, and falls from height, shows that well-known incident triggers are not being adequately controlled. 

“These are hazards that can be managed through proper risk assessment, forward planning and ensuring that all employees are fully aware of the need to prioritise safe working behaviour.”