Cork traffic warden withdraws case

A traffic warden suing Cork Corporation for trauma he suffered as a result of abuse by the public dramatically withdrew his case at the High Court in Cork today.

Michael Collins, aged 52, will receive absolutely no payment as a result of his decision today.

His solicitor Terry O'Sullivan said Mr Collins had withdrawn his case in the interest of colleagues, namely traffic wardens, who have also issued proceedings against the local authority.

Mr O'Sullivan said that the plaintiff had taken a very generous view in the interest of other cases pending.

Mr Collins was described as being "deeply disappointed" as a result of today's development.

His decision to withdraw the case was based on advice from his legal team, on what was the third day of the hearing.

Yesterday, Denis McCullogh, senior counsel for the corporation, said Mr Collins was effectively blaming the corporation for damaging his relationship with his wife and seeking compensation for that.

Yet he pointed out that Mr Collins had at least two extra-marital affairs in the years 1990 to 1993 and had only become a traffic warden in April 1992.

Mr Collins could face a very large legal bill, but it is understood that lawyers representing him will not be pursuing him for fees.