Lab technicians who were exposed to noxious fumes get €1.5m damages

Two former lab technicians who developed respiratory and psychological problems after they were exposed to noxious fumes at Athlone Institute of Technology have been awarded just over €1.5m damages by the High Court.

50-year-old Anne Connelly of Baylin, Athlone in Westmeath, a married mother of one, was awarded €802,000.

49-year-old Patricia Egan of Ballycumber in Offaly, a married mother of four, was awarded €754,000.

The court heard Anne Connelly is still constantly plagued by fears of cancer from the alleged chemical poisoning of her body and that Mrs Egan has ongoing low mood and clinical depression.