More soldiers to sue over malaria drug

The number of claims against the State by members of the Defence Forces who suffered side effects from a malaria medication is to rise following a substantial payout to a Corkman whose career and health were ruined by the drug, writes Caroline O’Doherty    

So far 58 serving and former members of the Defence Forces have lodged claims for suffering they allege was caused by the controversial drug mefloquine, known under the brand name Lariam, which they were prescribed while on overseas duty.

But the solicitor who represented former soldier Tony Cole whose case was the first to be heard in the High Court, and who received a settlement before Christmas, said his client’s case had prompted others to come forward who up to now had suffered in silence.