RUC officers take trauma battle to court

Lawyers for 2,500 police officers in Northern Ireland today began a landmark High Court action seeking compensation for trauma linked to 30 years of terror.

The officers want damages from the Royal Ulster Constabulary’s Chief Constable and the Police Authority for personal injury caused by the failure to diagnose or treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

The legal move was granted by Mr Justice Coghlin who will oversee the case - the first of its type in Northern Ireland.

It is expected it will be at least two years before the action reaches full trial, although lawyers have already consulted with expert witnesses.