Girl, 7, gets €2m part-settlement in action taken against HSE

A SEVEN-YEAR-OLD girl allegedly brain damaged at birth secured €2 million in part settlement of her claim in the High Court yesterday. The settlement was without admission of liability by the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The remainder of the case concerning future care was adjourned for two years when the case will proceed by assessment and any payments secured will be by way of periodic payments – a method favoured by Mr Justice John Quirke who approved yesterday’s partial settlement.

The periodic payments system is not due to be introduced for about 18 months and provides for payments up to the death of a person suffering from a brain or other serious injury which necessitates lifetime care.