Mediator recommends €990k award for teenager who sued over swine flu jab

The landmark action was a test case for 80 other legal actions over the vaccine developed in response to the swine flu pandemic

Benjamin Blackwell (centre), outside court last November with his parents Natalie and James Blackwell. The court previously heard there are extensive benefits in the settlement for Benjamin Blackwell, which includes educational supports, accommodation costs in relation to third-level education, a “gold” medical card as well as childcare costs. Photo: Collins Courts

A mediator in the High Court action of a 16-year-old boy who sued claiming he developed a rare sleep disorder after receiving a swine flu jab has recommended a €990,000 award in his case.

Last November, Benjamin Blackwell’s action was resolved in a groundbreaking settlement which is set to pave the way for the resolution of 80 cases over the Pandemrix vaccine which were due before the High Court.