Claims by 104 retired consultant surgeons over alleged unlawful reductions in their pensions could cost the State £9 million in compensation stretching back seven years.
Mr Gerard Lambe, the Dun Laoghaire solicitor representing the pensioners, said a representative action by Mr Sean Baker, Carukeal, Bantry, Co Cork, had been taken in the Circuit Civil Court on behalf of all of his retired colleagues.
Mr Baker's claim has been taken against the Southern Health Board, the Minister for Health, Ireland and the Attorney General.
Mr Brian Murray, counsel for the Health Board, and Mr Rory McCabe, counsel for the State, told the court the action would be fully defended and were granted inter-party discovery orders.