An Army sergeant with progressive hearing loss was awarded £45,000 damages by the High Court yesterday.
Sgt James Hassett (43), Chestnut Grove, Dundalk, who joined the Army in 1971, also has tinnitus and intolerance of loud noise, the court was told.
Mr Rory de Bruir, for Sgt Hassett, who is stationed at Aiken Barracks, Dundalk, claimed his client had been exposed to noise from artillery, small arms and heavy weapons fire.
In his statement of claim, Sgt Hassett alleged he had not been provided with ear protection at the start of his military career. Alternatively, it was claimed the protection provided was inadequate.
Ms Justice Laffoy, delivering judgment, said Sgt Hassett was a career soldier whose ambition was to remain in the Army until he reached 60 years. Liability was not an issue in the case and she was asked only to assess damages.
The judge said when she heard the case at Dundalk High Court in May 1997, a serious issue had arisen when it was contended that, under Army regulations then in force, Sgt Hassett was facing probable discharge from the Army on the ground of disability before the age of 60.
Under revised Army regulations, the probability of Sgt Hassett being discharged over hearing loss was no longer a factor, she said.
A medical expert believed Sgt Hasset would benefit from hearing aids, which cost about £2,000 each.