THERE have been 72 fatal electrocutions in Ireland in the last decade, but the trend is decreasing, according to official figures. There were 10 fatal electrocutions in 1990 but only three were recorded last year.
Some electrocutions may have occurred in the same way as described at yesterday's inquest. A spokesman for the ESB expressed confidence that despite the recent tragedy in Mulhuddart, fewer accidents would occur.
"The decrease in the amount of these tragic accidents is welcome considering that every year there is more electrical cable being used. We have a whole range of guidelines in place."
The ESB says that once a member of the public contacts it about a cable which has been action is taken. It says it faces a constant problem with vandals throwing conducting cable and various ropes and wires onto overhead cabling.
The electrical cable overhead usually short circuits when something is thrown onto it, but there are occasions when this does not happen, like the case involving William Carey.
The ESB believes people involved in tampering with cabling are teenagers who enjoy the "thrill" of watching the cable short circuit, producing a shower of sparks.
The difference between fatal contact and minor injuries is a matter of micro seconds, according to ESB engineers.