A former secretary to bishops in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin is facing estimated legal costs of more than €100,000 following an unsuccessful High Court challenge to a decision to make her redundant.
Ms Mary Sheehy (52), of Green Road, Carlow, was also ordered to repay an undisclosed sum which she had been paid for about 18 months from August 2002.
However, it was indicated in court yesterday that the diocese will not seek to recover that particular amount if Ms Sheehy does not bring an appeal.
On February 2nd, Ms Justice Carroll found that Ms Sheehy could be dismissed on receiving reasonable notice.
Eight weeks' notice had been given to Ms Sheehy, who had not said that was unreasonable, the judge said.
Ms Justice Carroll granted a stay on yesterday's costs order in the event of an appeal.