Maureen O’Hara’s former PA gets High Court apology

Judge strikes out case after statement read in court and settlement agreed with nephew

Actress Maureen O'Hara's former personal assistant was today given a High Court apology and damages over a number of statements made by the 94-year-old Hollywood star's nephew Charlie Fitzsimons.

In defamation proceedings, Carolyn Murphy, from Bantry, Co Cork, sued Mr Fitzsimons, who lives in Kinna, Sweden, over statements he made between 2012 and 2013.

Barrister Tom Hogan, for Ms Murphy, told the court the defamation proceedings had been settled on the basis of a statement being read out in court by Rossa Fanning, barrister for Mr Fitzsimons.

It said Mr FitzSimons made and published statements between August 2012 and July 2013 questioning the integrity and honesty of Ms Murphy.

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“The defendant accepts that such allegations are totally without foundation.” Mr Fitzsimons “unreservedly withdraws any imputations to the contrary and apologised to Carolyn Murphy for the distress and anxiety that these false allegations have caused her.

“The defendant also undertakes not to repeat these false allegations in the future and has agreed to pay appropriate damages to Ms Murphy in full and final settlement.” Ms Justice Iseult O’Malley agreed to strike out the case.