Prosecution Over August 2007 Tragedy

A man in charge of a boating operation in which a 14-year-old Army Cadet died has been fined in relation to safety failings.

Kaylee McIntosh died when the boat she was travelling in between Loch Carnan and Loch Skipport during an Army Cadet camp capsized in August 2007, leaving her trapped underneath the vessel.

An investigation into the incident revealed that 52-year-old Major George McCallum was in charge of the operation, but no documented risk assessment had been undertaken in relation to the activity. Further evidence also found that he failed to plan or assess the operation.

Mr McCallum was fined £5,000 after pleading guilty to contravention of Section 7(a) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 in relation to the incident.

Elaine Russell, a Partner at Irwin Mitchell’s Glasgow office, said it was vital lessons are learned following the tragedy.

She outlined: “This terrible tragedy has gone on to highlight just how important full and proper consideration of the risks of any activity involving people of all ages can be.

“Assessment of all of the potential risks could have proved crucial in ensuring the safety of those on board the boat. We hope that, following this terrible incident, more people recognise that risk assessments must become part and parcel of any activities of this kind.”