A disabled 14-year-old boy is to be made a ward of court after the High Court yesterday approved a £1.25 million settlement of a negligence action.
His action alleged negligence in the circumstances of his birth by the Northern Eastern Health Board and a consultant obstetrician, Mr Lewis Courtney. The settlement is without admission of liability by either defendant.
Shane Loughlin, suing through his mother, Ms Susan Loughlin, of Cavan, claims he suffers from cerebral palsy, poor eyesight, and speech and mental impairment as a result of the alleged negligence of Lisdarn Hospital, Cavan, and Mr Courtney.
Mr Justice Kearns said that while medical experts would support the child's claim, there were other experts for the defendants who would say it was a tragedy and that they were not to blame. It appeared to him to be a satisfactory settlement.