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An electric “mini bomb” explosion has left a Co Down councillor “shook up” at his council desk.
The 'shocking' incident took place during Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s full monthly meeting last week in its Downpatrick chamber.
The loud bang caused a wave of gasps from “scared” elected members as sparks were said to “hit the ceiling” with the council now investigating the matter.
Mournes councillor Henry Reilly spoke to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) saying:”This was a replacement laptop and charger I only recently received from the council, basically brand new.
“I just plugged the charger into the mains and whenever I went to put the connection into my laptop, it was like a bloody mini bomb going off in the chamber!
“There were women gasping and people saying ‘oh God’. It was a pretty frightening experience, it scared everybody in the chamber.
“The sparks that came out of it literally hit the ceiling.
“If I had of had my microphone on I’m sure it would have busted the sound system.”
He added: “Believe it or not I was actually in shock after it,I just couldn’t believe it, it was surreal, it definitely shook me up a bit, there is no doubt about it.
“I would be concerned for other councillors who may have the same chargers allocated to them.
“The council would definitely need to do a technical check as that charger was virtually new and it shouldn’t have happened.”
At the time, the bang caused deputy chairperson Doire Finn to jump in her seat saying “whoa”.
Whilst, council chairperson, Glyn Hanna quipped: “You ok Henry, you’re like the walking wounded there.”
The LDRS contacted the council.
A spokesperson said: “Following an electrical issue during the council meeting on 6 July, the meeting was briefly paused while appropriate safety checks were carried out.
“The matter was dealt with promptly and appropriate action was taken to ensure the safety of those present.
“The incident has been investigated and any actions arising from the findings are being taken.
“The council takes health and safety seriously and has arrangements in place for the inspection and maintenance of its electrical systems and equipment.”
