Waste collection firm Panda is set to face trial on indictment in the Circuit Court following an investigation into the death of a worker at a recycling plant in Finglas, north Dublin.

The prosecution against Tallaght-based Starrus Eco Holdings Limited, trading as Panda Waste Management Solutions, came before Judge Anthony Halpin at Dublin District Court. The court was informed that the Director of Public Prosecutions had directed that the company face trial on indictment in the Circuit Court, which holds wider sentencing powers.

The case follows a Health and Safety Authority (HSA) investigation into the death of 32-year-old Radu Alexandru Chertes, who suffered fatal injuries while working at the company's premises on Cappagh Road, Finglas, on April 6, 2022.

The company faces six charges under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. According to the charges, the firm allegedly failed to ensure, so far as was reasonably practicable, the safety, health, and welfare of its employees.

Specifically, prosecutors claim the company failed to maintain a safe system of work, establish adequate control measures, and provide proper training, instruction, and supervision for clearing blockages in an M&J Pre-Shred 4000S machine. The State alleges that Mr Chertes suffered fatal injuries as a result of these alleged failings.

Judge Halpin granted an application by the State to adjourn the case for four weeks to allow for the service of a book of evidence before issuing a return-for-trial order. The company has not yet entered a plea in relation to the charges.

At the opening of an inquest into Mr Chertes' death at Dublin District Coroner's Court in November 2022, evidence was presented that a post-mortem examination showed he died from catastrophic injuries due to an industrial incident. The inquest remains adjourned pending the completion of the judicial process.