News & Insights
Revised EU Air Passenger Rights: Key Changes and Implications
The European Union has recently made significant strides in revising the regulations governing air passenger rights. After over a decade of political stalemate, EU transport ministers have finally reached a consensus on new rules intended to simplify and clarify the rights of air travellers. However, consumer advocacy groups have expressed concerns that these changes might […]
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Challenges in Resolving Professional Negligence Cases
A recent conference on professional negligence and liability highlighted the need for improved pre-action protocols and a broader range of expertise to effectively resolve professional negligence cases in Ireland. The event, attended by legal, insurance, and business leaders, underscored the complexities involved in these cases, particularly in the construction sector, amidst evolving economic and regulatory […]
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Navigating Professional Negligence Risks in a Changing Climate
In the evolving landscape of professional negligence claims, the impact of climate change is becoming increasingly significant. Experts have warned professionals in the property and construction sectors about the heightened risks associated with climate change, which are expected to intensify over the next 15 to 20 years. This article delves into the various categories of […]
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Impact of Storm Éowyn: Assistance Scheme’s Extensive Reach
The aftermath of Storm Éowyn, which struck on January 24, has led to an overwhelming number of claims under a humanitarian assistance scheme designed to aid those affected by its devastation. This scheme provided financial support to households that suffered from the storm’s impact, particularly those left without power or water. Widespread Claims Across Counties […]
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Supreme Court Revises ‘Primor’ Test for Dismissal of Claims
The Supreme Court has recently re-evaluated the ‘Primor’ test, which is used to determine the dismissal of claims due to lack of prosecution. This significant reformulation now aligns with Order 122, rule 11 of the Rules of the Superior Courts, emphasizing the impact of delays in legal proceedings. Background And Development In the mid-2000s, Mr […]
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Irish Aviation Authority Reports Passenger Compensation for 2024
In 2024, airline passengers in Ireland were awarded €1.197 million in compensation for complaints that were upheld by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). Additionally, the watchdog secured €360,104 in refunds for passengers. According to the annual report, a total of 1,943 complaints against airlines were not upheld, primarily because airlines were able to demonstrate that […]
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Court Denies Stay in Defamation Case Against Amazon
The High Court recently made a significant ruling in a defamation case brought by media lawyer Paul Tweed. The court refused to impose a stay on proceedings against two firms involved in selling a book alleged to contain defamatory content. This decision emphasises the court’s commitment to ensuring that plaintiffs can pursue their legal rights […]
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Landmark Irish Court Decisions Could Signal Legal Funding Changes
Recent developments in Irish court rulings have drawn attention to the ongoing debate around third-party litigation funding in Ireland. Unlike many other common law countries, Ireland has traditionally prohibited such funding, with exceptions limited to international commercial arbitration due to the Courts and Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2023. This prohibition is largely due to […]
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Judicial Review Dismissed in Garda Disciplinary Case
The High Court has recently dismissed an application for judicial review by a garda involved in a disciplinary case. The garda was accused of engaging in an inappropriate relationship with a woman who had reported domestic abuse to the police. This decision was rendered by Mr Justice Garrett Simons, who found that the suspension and […]
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Calls for Legal Fee Reform in Injury Claims Resolution
The Injuries Resolution Board has urged the government to reconsider legislation regarding the payment of legal fees. This request marks a significant shift, as the board was originally established two decades ago to eliminate the burden of costly legal fees. Currently, the board is only able to approve legal fee payments in rare scenarios. In […]
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Infected Blood Compensation Sparks Controversy Over Delays
Nigel Hamilton, a prominent figure in Haemophilia Northern Ireland, has raised concerns about the flawed compensation process for victims of the infected blood scandal, describing it as “immoral, corrupt and unacceptable”. Hamilton, who contracted hepatitis C from contaminated blood products during an operation in the 1970s, shared his experiences with the ongoing inquiry into the […]
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Investigation Reveals Unnecessary Children’s Surgeries in Ireland
In a detailed review initiated in July 2024, the National Orthopaedic Hospital Cappagh and Children's Health Ireland conducted a thorough examination of 147 hip dysplasia surgeries performed from 2021 to 2023. This audit was prompted by concerns from a whistle-blower regarding the surgical criteria used for children with Developmental Hip Dysplasia at these institutions. Audit […]
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