Courts / Ireland / Report

Irish Times apologises to psychiatrist over web comments by members of public

Date
2016-01-28

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Summary

The Irish Times has apologised to Consultant Psychiatrist Professor Patricia Casey before the High Court regarding defamatory comments posted on its website. Prof Casey, the applicant in this matter, brought defamation proceedings over remarks made by anonymous members of the public in July 2013. These comments appeared beneath articles written by columnist Breda O'Brien and psychiatrist Prof. Brendan Kelly concerning the Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill. The High Court heard that the action had been resolved between the parties. As part of the settlement, an apology was read to the court by Cian Ferriter SC on behalf of the newspaper. The apology acknowledged that two anonymous users had stated Prof Casey was an unprofessional psychiatrist unfit to treat suicidal pregnant women and that she misrepresented research to promote a Catholic agenda. The Irish Times accepted these comments were untrue and recognised Prof Casey's integrity and professionalism. No other details of the settlement were revealed in open court. Following the apology, Prof Casey stated she was pleased with the outcome and expressed hope that the case would encourage online publications to reconsider the comments they allow. She thanked her legal team, including solicitor Kevin Brophy. The matter was resolved by settlement and apology rather than a judicial finding of liability.