THE PRESIDENT of the High Court has awarded €76,900 damages to an Army sergeant who suffered injuries to his eyes after a tyre on an armoured personnel vehicle exploded while he was examining it.
In making the award, Mr Justice Nicholas Kearns described Sgt Martin Bolger as an “exemplary soldier”.
Quartermaster Sgt Bolger (44), Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, told the court he was on UN duty in Monrovia, Liberia, in July 2006 when the tyre of a Mowag armoured personnel carrier exploded.
As a result of the incident, Sgt Bolger claimed he suffered significant injuries to his eyes and hearing. In proceedings against the Minister for Defence and the Attorney General, he alleged negligence and breach of duty of care.
Liability was admitted and the case came before Mr Justice Kearns for assessment of damages only. He awarded Sgt Bolger €76,900 damages plus costs. Sgt Bolger, who has been in the Defence Forces for more than 20 years, remains in the Army and continues to be treated for his eye condition.