Riverdance drummer takes legal action over hearing loss

A RIVERDANCE drummer has taken an action against his employers as a result of tinnitus and hearing loss which, according to his counsel, means the musician is unable to continue with his professional career.

The action has been taken by Paul Moran, 54, of Maywood Avenue, Co Dublin, against Abhann Productions Limited trading as Riverdance The Show, with registered offices at Little Mary Street, Dublin 7.

The case is for assessment only and the defendant has conceded liability. The plaintiff worked with Riverdance from 1997 to 2000.

The hearing continues today.

John O’Donnell SC, for Mr Moran said that on May 16, 1999, his client became aware of the fact that his deafness and tinnitus were noise-induced. In October 1999 the defendant was in possession of a report from an expert that warned them in unambiguous terms that the noise levels for the drummer would have to be reduced.

Mr O’Donnell said Mr Moran had tinnitus — a buzzing sound in his ears which prevented him from sleeping at night. He had hearing loss particularly in crowded or noisy places and had continuing distress and anxiety as a result. In addition his social and professional life as a musician was greatly affected. He had an inability to continue fully his professional life and the hearing loss affected his ability to earn a living. His loss of earnings were ongoing.

Counsel added that his client was unable to undertake recordings of any albums in the studios and his professional career as a musician had ended. “His career as a professional musician is destroyed,” said Mr O’Donnell.

In a statement of claim it was submitted that Mr Moran contracted his condition because of the negligence of the defendant or agents in constantly exposing the plaintiff to excessive noise and in particular working on stage at various concert events organised, directed, controlled and supervised by the defendant.

It is claimed that at all material times the defendant, its servants or agent supplied or controlled the sound equipment used and the level of noise emitted from the equipment involved; in particular the positioning of and control over the speakers used and the level of noise emitted without the supply of any ear protection which resulted in Mr Moran suffering severe personal injuries.

According to the statement of claim the defendant directed Mr Moran to operate his instruments in front of large and powerful amp and speaker systems and refused or neglected to heed the continual request by the plaintiff for proper and adequate ear protection.