Court award 'right and just'

It was “right and just” that a sizeable proportion of Cullen Kennedy’s record compensation would go to the hospitals that had cared for him over the past four years, his family said today.

A High Court judge approved a record €11.5 million settlement for the child, who was left quadriplegic after a road crash.

In a statement read out by their solicitor, Ian Foley, they described Cullen as a "wonderful 10 year-old boy" who had suffered "catastrophic injuries" as a result of the road accident in June 2008.

Outside the Four Courts in Dublin after the case, Mr Foley stood next to Margaret Kennedy, Cullen's mother, Monica Kennedy, his grandmother and Cullen, who smiled occasionally sitting in his wheelchair as several photographers took pictures of him and about ten reporters recorded the statement.

"All our lives changed forever that day, most especially Cullen's who was a normal and happy six year-old and is now a quadriplegic," said Mr Foley.

"We would like to pay a personal tribute to Cullen who is an inspiring and very brave boy. No amount of money could compensate for the horrific injuries he has suffered.

"Cullen has received fantastic care and it is right and just that a sizeable proportion of his record settlement of compensation in a case of this type goes for past care. Many hospitals who provided him with excellent care will benefit from this and hopefully it will slightly ease their challenges in these difficult financial times for the health services."

The family thanked medical professionals in Galway and Dublin in particular, the courts for the respectful way in which personnel had handled the case and for the ongoing service they would provide in managing the settlement fund.

Solicitor Ian Foley High addressed the media outside the court
"We would also like to thank both the Kennedy and Goodfellow families who have endured so much and put their lives on hold to ensure that Cullen obtains the best care possible."

They also thanked fund-raisers including the Route 66 motorcyclists, the 'Friends of Cullen' in Glenduff House Tralee and friends of the family in Galway, as well as their legal team.