THE OWNER of agricultural storage sheds destroyed by fire when meat and bone meal products self-combusted has claimed the Department of Agriculture and one of its agents owes him more than €1 million in damages and loss of rent.
The meal was stored at an adapted unit as part of a department operation to contain remains of cattle destroyed in efforts to contain BSE, the High Court heard yesterday.
Tony Lynch, Rockfield Close, Ardee, Co Louth, and Lynch’s of Ardee (Potatoes) Ltd, had brought proceedings against the Minister for Agriculture; College Proteins Ltd, Nobber, Meath; and Thomas White, Heathtown, Stamullen, Meath, as transporters and procurers of storage for the meal on behalf of the department.
The defendants have admitted liability, and the case is before the court for assessment of damages for the plaintiffs. After the meal self-combusted in 2003, Mr Lynch’s sheds were destroyed and left so contaminated it was no longer safe to store agricultural produce there, the court heard.
Mr Lynch claims the cost of restoring the sheds was nearly €900,000. The defendants say it is €600,000. The amount of lost rent is also in dispute. Mr Lynch claims it is more than €111,000.
High Court president Mr Justice Nicholas Kearns has adjourned the matter to allow the parties try to reach agreement over what the figures should be.