Courts / Limerick / Report

Couple whose home was demolished without notice settle damages action

Date
2015-01-16

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Primary locality
Limerick

Summary

Brian and Mary O'Shaughnessy, who owned a two‑bedroom farmhouse in Annaholty, Birdhill, Co. Tipperary, had their home demolished on 6 September 2006 without notice during construction of the N7 dual carriageway. The couple, who were renovating the house and had obtained planning permission, claimed the demolition was negligent and filed a High Court damages action against Limerick County Council, the National Roads Authority, RPS Consulting Engineers Ltd, EGIS Route Scetauroute SA, and Midland Fencing Ltd. In January 2015 the O'Shaughnessys settled their action and were "out of the case," though the defendants continue to dispute liability. The settlement terms were confidential. The court remains to decide which defendant is responsible for the demolition. The O'Shaughnessys had purchased the house for IR£34,500 in 1998, had lived there, and had intended to reside there permanently. The demolition left them homeless, unable to meet mortgage repayments, and led to possession orders that are now on hold.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Couple whose home was demolished without notice settle damages action. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

September 6th 2006 Other
August 2006 Other
September 6th, 2006 Incident
2001 to 2003 Other
Christmas Incident
2015-01-16 Publication

Why: The O'Shaughnessys, whose property was close to the new road, were informed by the NRA in 2003 their home was not required in order to complete the project. CNI source report