A Fianna Fail TD, Mr John Ellis, has settled his High Court claim for damages arising out of a road accident near Cliffoney, Co Sligo, three years ago. The action was struck out and no details of the settlement were made known.
Mr Ellis (48), of Fenagh, Co Leitrim, brought his action against Mr Sean Grimes, Grattan Court, Grattan Street, Sligo. He alleged that on June 9th, 1997, his car collided with one driven by Mr Grimes.
Mr Ellis said he had been severely shocked and distressed and had been thrown around inside his car which was driven into a wall by the force of the impact. He felt soreness in the ribs and right knee and his neck was painful. He claimed that as a Dail deputy, he was required to travel 110 miles to Dublin on numerous occasions during the week. Long-distance driving exacerbated his symptoms and he continued to suffer pain and discomfort.
As a consequence of the accident, he required extra help on his farm due to his inability to perform certain farming tasks. The medical opinion was that he received a strain to his neck and lower back together with bruising of the ribs. He had been advised to avoid heavy lifting and straining as far as was practicable.
His claim included one for travelling and miscellaneous expenses described as "a general" claim. It was stated that Mr Ellis had incurred considerable expense in attending his doctors, consultants and solicitors.
Mr Grimes denied the accident happened in the manner alleged on behalf of Mr Ellis and also denied he was guilty of negligence.