€1.7m interim payment for brain-damaged teenage boy

A teenage boy who allegedly suffered brain damage at birth has settled his High Court action on terms including an interim payment of €1.7 million to meet his care needs over the next two years.

The settlement is without admission of liability. Ryan Brennan (13), who has cerebral palsy, will need constant care for the rest of his life.

Through his mother, Lorraine Brennan, Cahir, Co Tipperary, the boy sued Brendan Powell, a consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at St Joseph’s Hospital, Clonmel, and the Health Service Executive over alleged negligence, breach of duty and breach of contract at the time of his birth in January 2000. Yesterday, Michael Counihan SC, said the settlement was without admission of liability and against the HSE only. Ms Justice Mary Irvine granted counsel’s application to strike out the case against Mr Powell.

Outside the court Ms Brennan said the settlement would not compensate her son but will mean he will have all the things he needs so he can have a better life.

Ryan, she said, is a sociable, lovely boy who likes pony riding and swimming and being with other children.