AN 11-YEAR-old schoolboy, who cut his left knee after tripping on a “vandalised” Irish Water meter, has been awarded €12,500 damages in the Circuit Civil Court.
Barrister John Nolan told the court that in November 2014, Finn Wallace was playing outside his aunt’s home at Middletown Valley, Riverchapel, Wexford, when his left foot was caught in the uncovered and broken water meter.
Nolan told Judge James O’Donohoe that Finn, of Rose Glen Manor, Kilbarrack, Dublin, fell forward and lacerated the top of his knee.
The court heard the wound had been bleeding heavily and was cleaned and bandaged by Finn’s mother, Tracy Wallace. He was later taken to the Clannad Medical Centre in Dublin as the bandage continued to seep blood.
Counsel said the wound was again dressed and took several months to heal. Finn had not been able to play sports during that time.
Judge O’Donohoe heard the wound has left a permanent visible scar on Finn’s knee. Through his mother Tracy, he sued Irish Water for negligence.
Nolan said Irish Water had made a €12,500 settlement offer and he recommended acceptance of it to court. He said liability may be an issue if the case went to a full hearing.
The court heard that Irish Water claimed the meter had been installed correctly but had been vandalised by a third party.
“If that defence holds, Finn would lose his case,” Mr Nolan said.
Judge O’Donohoe approved the offer.
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