News & Insights
Civil Cases Filed After Creeslough Explosion Tragedy
A significant legal development has arisen following the tragic explosion at a service station in Creeslough, which claimed ten lives and left others injured in 2022. Families of the victims, along with survivors, have initiated civil lawsuits against multiple parties associated with the site. These legal actions seek damages for personal injuries and psychological trauma […]
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Understanding ADR: Arbitration vs. Mediation in Dispute Resolution
Recent discussions in the field of dispute resolution have brought to light an important differentiation that practitioners must recognize: compulsory arbitration and mandatory mediation are not interchangeable. In a landmark ruling by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in the case of Semenya v. Switzerland, it was determined that athletes who are required to […]
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High Court Rules on Personal Injuries Guidelines for Abuse Cases
In a notable decision, the High Court has firmly established that Personal Injuries Guidelines do not extend to child sexual abuse cases. This conclusion arose in the context of a legal dispute where such claims were not deemed to fall within the parameters of a “personal injuries action” as outlined by the Civil Liability and […]
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Inquiry Into Sodium Valproate’s Impact on Families Begins
The recent launch of an inquiry into the historical licensing and application of the drug sodium valproate, known commercially as Epilim, marks a significant moment for many families. This investigation aims to explore the implications of the drug’s use by women of childbearing age, focusing on the health repercussions for their offspring. Sodium valproate is […]
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Dismissal Claim Rejection at eBay Amid Personal Challenges
In a recent tribunal hearing, former eBay Europe Services Ltd employee Eanna Donoghue’s claim of constructive dismissal was dismissed. The case highlighted the complexities surrounding workplace grievances and personal challenges. Background Of The Dispute Eanna Donoghue, who resigned from his position on March 5 last year, had faced a written warning for what was termed […]
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Ex-TD Faces Court Over Unpaid Workplace Relations Commission Award
Violet Anne Wynne, a former Clare TD, recently informed a court of her current financial struggles, which hinder her ability to fulfil a €6,500 debt. This obligation stems from a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) award related to an unfair dismissal case. Appearing at Ennis District Court, Wynne explained her unemployment status, stating, “I am currently […]
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Landowner’s Actions Threaten Vital Power Supply Maintenance
In a significant legal confrontation, a landowner’s actions have raised concerns over potential power disruptions and essential maintenance work. The case centres around Tom O’Shea from Milltown, Newbridge, Co Kildare, who stands accused of obstructing ESB contractors tasked with critical tree and vegetation management near high-voltage power lines. Background Of The Dispute The tension between […]
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Implications of Halting Proposed Increase in Personal Injury Awards
The recent decision not to proceed with the proposed 16.7% increase in personal injury awards has significant implications for both the insurance industry and consumers. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has decided against seeking approval from the Oireachtas, effectively stopping the proposal from advancing. Had it been approved, the increase could have substantially raised the value […]
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Northern Ireland Explores New Approaches to Justice Reform
Efforts are underway in Northern Ireland to reconsider how the criminal justice system manages lesser offences, with a consultation launched to explore the expansion of out-of-court disposals. These proposals aim to streamline the process for handling minor infractions, such as certain motoring offences, by empowering the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Public […]
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Government Blocks Proposed Increase in Personal Injury Awards
The government’s decision to reject the proposed increase in personal injury awards has sparked significant debate across various sectors. The Judicial Council had suggested a 16.7% rise in these awards, aligning with inflation rates since the last adjustments three years ago. Such changes would have seen awards for shortened life expectancy rise from €550,000 to […]
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German Court Decision Marks Major Shift in Data Privacy Enforcement
In a groundbreaking decision, a German court has mandated that Meta must compensate a German Facebook user €5,000 for using tracking technology embedded in third-party websites. This ruling may pave the way for significant fines related to data privacy violations involving tracking pixels and similar tools. Data Privacy And The GDPR The Regional Court of […]
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Rising Complaints Signal Potential Trouble for Irish Solicitors
The recent Legal Services Regulation Authority (LSRA) Annual Report for 2024 brings concerning news for solicitors and their professional indemnity (PI) insurers alike. The report reveals a 14% increase in complaints, largely driven by banks flagging solicitors’ failures to adhere to undertakings. This trend harks back to challenging times in the legal profession, particularly following […]
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