In a statement released after the fine was imposed, BHC chief executive Joe O’Neill said: “The tragic death of Mr Neil Rooney in 2017 has had a profound and lasting impact on many people, including on the Belfast port community.

“We are deeply sorry and apologize to his partner, his children, his extended family, his friends and colleagues. Our thoughts continue to be with them.

“It is with regret and remorse that we acknowledge the failings which contributed to Mr Rooney’s death, including the maintenance and use of our equipment at the time.

“We accept without reservation the fine imposed by the court.”

He said they cooperated fully with the investigation.

“Since the accident, we have further strengthened our safety processes and protocols,” he added.

“We continually evaluate, challenge and improve our health and safety performance, with a relentless focus on accident prevention.”

Kevin Campbell from the Health and Safety Executive said: “In this tragic case there was a failure to inspect, examine and maintain the hopper to ensure it was safe to use .

“It is essential that all managers have a rigorous inspection and planned maintenance program for their equipment, taking into account the conditions in which the equipment is used.”