Author: Coleman Legal LLP

Solicitor Keith Rolls criticises the continued delay in publishing the Halpin Report, as families still await answers about the care provided to children by North Kerry CAMHS.

As of January 2026, the Halpin Report into North Kerry CAMHS remains unpublished, despite the completion of all individual clinical file reviews.

Sexual abuse civil claim: legal battle over alleged abuse continues

A High Court ruling allows a woman to continue her sexual abuse civil claim against her brother. The court found no unfair trial risk despite a 40-year delay in bringing the case.

The delay in publishing the report on the Lookback Review in North Kerry CAMHS is distressing for the affected families.

The North Kerry CAMHS Review examined 300 patient files, but its unpublished report continues to cause distress for affected families.

Sodium Valproate Inquiry [2025]

The Sodium Valproate Inquiry in Ireland commenced on 22 July 2025, marking a major investigation into the drug’s historic use and its devastating impact on children exposed in the womb.

CHI apologises to families amid concerns over the CHI hip surgery review

The CHI hip surgery review has uncovered serious issues in paediatric care, prompting an apology from CHI and a commitment to reform.

VHI launches investigation into unnecessary hip surgeries that were the subject of health insurance claims

VHI has begun investigating claims for unnecessary hip surgeries at Temple Street and Cappagh hospitals. This follows a report detailing procedures that didn’t meet clinical thresholds, prompting the insurer to review its reimbursement protocols and the medical necessity of these operations.

Report uncovers “very serious concerns” over unnecessary hip surgeries in Dublin children’s hospitals [2025]

A recent audit has uncovered alarming concerns over unnecessary hip surgery in Dublin children’s hospitals, with hundreds of cases flagged for urgent review and follow-up.

Death of baby at Portiuncala University hospital leads to new review

Portiuncula Hospital faces intensified scrutiny as a tenth external review into its maternity services begins, following a recent baby’s death.

Tusla report finds that children were left to cry due to insufficient staff at Wexford Creche

The latest Tusla report uncovers worrying conditions at a Wexford creche, where babies were left crying and staff struggled to meet basic care needs.

RTE Investigates to spotlight the Christian Brothers’ abuse and asset handling

Philip Treacy of Coleman Legal features on RTE Investigates to highlight legal challenges survivors face in Christian Brothers abuse cases.

Christian brother who sexually assaulted seven boys while teaching in Kilkenny school had also abused 22 others

The Kilkenny school sexual abuse case involving Martin O’Flaherty reveals the suffering of 29 boys, with recent court proceedings uncovering new victims after 40 years.

Assessment of Needs for Children- Minister Norma Foley admits that “We need to do better”

The HSE has failed to carry out thousands of assessments of needs within the statutory timeframe, affecting children’s access to support services.

John McClean, a former rugby coach at Terenure College, has been found guilty of assaulting four more youths

John McClean, a former teacher at Terenure College, has been convicted of further offences in the Terenure College abuse scandal involving multiple former students.

Unborn Babies Wrongly Diagnosed with Fatal Foetal Abnormality before Termination

Two Irish families allege they were advised to terminate pregnancies after being misdiagnosed with fatal foetal abnormality — later discovering their babies were healthy.

After 10 Years and Crumbling Health, Ex-Air Corps Tech Wins €2m Battle Over Toxic Chemical Exposure in the Workplace

Former Irish Air Corps technician Gary Coll secured a €2 million settlement after suffering severe health issues from toxic chemical exposure at Casement Aerodrome. His case exposes safety failures, hazardous initiation rituals, and systemic negligence. With nine lawsuits pending and a Defence Forces tribunal underway, it raises urgent questions about accountability and long-term health risks in the Irish military.

How to claim compensation after a road accident in Ireland [2025]

If you’ve been in a road accident, follow these 5 steps to secure compensation: apply to the Injuries Board, understand how compensation is calculated, consider contributory negligence, avoid quick insurance settlements, and consult a solicitor for expert advice.

Radiographer found guilty of professional misconduct at Tallaght Hospital

A radiographer at Tallaght Hospital was dismissed after a complaint about inappropriate conduct during an X-ray on a teenage patient. A CORU inquiry found him guilty of professional misconduct, leading to conditions on his registration.

Failings at in Maternity Service cost the State €320m between 2015 and 2019

A review by the State Claims Agency of maternity claims from 2015-2019 has revealed critical failures in fetal heart monitoring, CTG trace interpretation, and labour induction methods. Advocacy groups, including Safer Births Ireland, have called for an in-depth inquiry as concerns over maternity care persist,

External Review to begin at Portiuncula Hospital in light of concerns regarding the delivery of nine babies

Maternity services at Portiuncula Hospital are under external review after a concerning number of neonatal complications, including cases of hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and stillbirths. The HSE has appointed an external management team to oversee improvements and ensure patient safety.

HSE failed in its obligations to assess potentially disabled children under the Disability Act 2005

In a landmark decision, the High Court ruled against the HSE Standard Operating Procedure for Assessments of Needs (AON), stating that a comprehensive assessment, including a diagnosis, is essential for determining a child’s needs.

Victims of “low-level” asbestos exposure succeed at the Supreme Court

Dianne Willmore, who passed from mesothelioma in 2009, won a landmark £240,000 case, holding Knowsley Borough Council liable for her asbestos exposure during school. Her case prompted legal and financial ramifications for local authorities nationwide, leading to increased awareness and changes in asbestos-related negligence proceedings.

Personal trainer at Mullingar gym convicted of sexual assault

Shane Flynn, 35, owner of a Mullingar clinic, was convicted of sexual assault after inappropriately touching a client seeking back pain relief. The investigation also revealed 18 hours of footage showing Flynn secretly filming 35 women during massages, raising further concerns about his conduct and abuse of trust within his practice.

Taxi driver who sexually assaulted teenage passenger handed five and a half year sentence

Naveed Rana, a Dublin taxi driver, was sentenced to five and a half years for the assault of an 18-year-old woman after a night out. The court heard how Rana took advantage of the victim’s trust, driving erratically and assaulting her before being apprehended due to her quick actions in reporting the incident to Gardaí.

Young father dies following nine hour wait and misdiagnosis at Cork University Hospital

Pat Murphy, a 34-year-old father, died after a ruptured artery went undiagnosed at Cork University Hospital. Despite suffering severe chest pains, he faced a nine-hour wait for a CT scan, delayed further by a malfunctioning machine. His family claims this delay contributed to his tragic death.

Former employees of content moderation firms “controlled” by Meta argue psychological harm before the High Court

Meta, previously known as Facebook, is facing accusations in the Irish High Court for allegedly exerting complete control over third-party firms managing its content moderation. Former employees of these firms claim they suffered psychological harm from the violent material they were required to view as moderators. The case brings up complex jurisdictional issues, with Meta’s global operations under scrutiny.

The initial stage of the review in CAMHS in North Kerry is set to take twice as long as the HSE initially anticipated

The CAMHS in North Kerry review, expected to finish by early 2024, has now been delayed until 2025, causing frustration among families. Only 300 cases are being examined, leaving many without answers as delays mount. Families and advocates are calling for an expanded review and quicker resolution to the alleged harm caused by the service.

Special needs schools account for a disproportionate number of historical sexual abuse claims at religious-run institutions

The Scoping Inquiry report revealed 590 allegations of sexual abuse in special schools, disproportionately affecting vulnerable children. The abuse spanned 17 special schools, with over 190 abusers implicated. Institutions like Lota and Holy Family School were key sites of abuse. Survivors of abuse in special schools are encouraged to seek confidential support.

Gardaí contacted over 160 times in three days following publication of inquiry into sexual abuse at religious schools

An Garda Síochána has received more than 160 reports of historical sexual abuse in religious-run schools since launching a public appeal. The reports follow the release of the Scoping Inquiry, which uncovered nearly 3,000 claims of abuse. Survivors are encouraged to contact Gardaí, who have assured privacy and support throughout the investigation process.

Thousands of allegations of historical sexual abuse in religious schools reported to Goverment inquiry

The Scoping Inquiry has revealed close to 2,400 allegations of historical sexual abuse in religious-run schools across Ireland. The report, detailing the abuse inflicted on thousands of children, calls for a full Commission of Investigation and urges the government to consider financial redress for survivors.

Pelvic mesh manufacturers’ payout to victims in English group action expected to be in the millions

In a landmark UK settlement, three major pelvic mesh manufacturers have agreed to a multi-million pound payout for over 100 women suffering severe complications from transvaginal mesh implants. Despite the settlement, the companies deny liability, leaving thousands of other victims still seeking justice.

The county council brought to the High Court over dangerous mould in social housing

A Leitrim family of seven has been granted permission to proceed with a judicial review against the county council after it deemed their mould-infested home did not render them homeless, sparking a legal battle over emergency housing rights.

The State have breached right to human dignity by failing to provide housing to asylum seekers, High Court rules

The High Court has determined that the State’s inadequate housing provisions for male asylum seekers constitute a breach of their fundamental right to human dignity. This landmark ruling, initiated by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, highlights the severe impact of homelessness on vulnerable individuals. Despite the State’s defence citing resource constraints, the court emphasised that human rights obligations must be met.

Former school swim coach Derry O’Rourke jailed for 10 years for rape and sexual assault

Derry O’Rourke, a former Irish swim coach with a history of sexual crimes, has been sentenced to ten years in prison for the rape and sexual assault of a young girl between 1989 and 1990. Despite his attempts to claim innocence, O’Rourke was found guilty of multiple offences, with the judge condemning him as a “serial child abuser.” The courageous victim, who was only 13 at the time, detailed the traumatic impact of his actions in court.

SVP volunteer accused of sexual assault by woman seeking support following hospitalisation

A long-time SVP volunteer has been suspended after being accused of sexually assaulting a woman seeking aid. The incident occurred during a coffee meeting, leading to a Garda investigation.

Former girls swim coach found guilty of child sexual abuse for a fourth time

Derry O’Rourke, a former Irish swim coach, has been convicted of child sexual abuse for the fourth time. The 78-year-old was found guilty of raping and indecently assaulting a 13-year-old girl 35 years ago.

Investigation reveals allegations of sexual harassment of female former players in the FAI

RTE Investigates and the Sunday Independent carried out a joint investigation into claims of unwanted and inappropriate sexual advances experienced by female footballers in the 1990s at the hands of FAI coaches.

Allegations from female former soccer players being probed by An Garda Síochána

An Garda Siochana is investigating allegations of unwanted sexual advances by two former soccer coaches in the 1990s, following a collaborative investigation by the Sunday Independent and RTE.

Woman dies in Beaumont Hospital after being given eight times the correct dosage

Dublin woman, 92, dies at Beaumont Hospital after fatal blood pressure medication overdose. Hospital urged for systemic changes.

Coleman Legal settle High Court sexual abuse case against Scouting Ireland

A High Court case against Scouting Ireland and a convicted former scout leader for sexual abuse in the 80s settled. The victim, haunted by the abuse, experiences lasting psychological and physical effects.

Cancer causing talc costs Johnson & Johnson $260 million at trial

A Portland jury awarded $260 million to a woman who contracted mesothelioma from Johnson and Johnson talc. The case is part of numerous lawsuits alleging asbestos contamination in J&J talc products.

Campaigner Louise O’Keefe urges stricter supervision on abuse redress efforts

Louise O’Keefe criticises the Irish government for failing to fully implement the European Court’s ruling on child sex abuse redress, despite creating schemes that exclude many survivors.

A former teacher and judge, Gerard O’Brien misused his disability to sexually assault students

Gerard O’Brien, a former judge and teacher, has been found guilty of attempted rape and eight counts of sexual assault, using his disability to manipulate and abuse students at CBC Monkstown in Dublin.

Man who threatened to leak explicit photos of his ex jailed for 10 months

A man received a 20-month sentence, 10 suspended, for threatening to share intimate photos of his ex-girlfriend. Despite his remorse and difficult past, the court highlighted the severity of the privacy violation.

Dental Negligence Claims

If you’ve been affected by dental negligence, contact Coleman Legal LLP for experienced legal advice and support. Call us at 1800-844-104 or email [email protected] to discuss your legal options.

Mayo Hospital apologises for the death of patient (72) in High Court settlement

The Moyles family has reached a settlement with Mayo Hospital after Ann Moyles’ death in 2017. She was left on a trolley for 20 hours in the Emergency Department, leading to her demise.

Penney’s security guard sentenced for sexually assaulting teenage customer

Dublin security guard Abdul Rahman Mohammed, 35, gets five years for sexually assaulting a 15-year-old at Penney’s, Dundrum. Victim shoplifted; Mohammed demanded money after assault.

Mother awarded over half a million pounds in damages following traumatic childbirth

Mother awarded £575,000 after childbirth injuries left her with a permanent stoma and PTSD. Maternity negligence claims highlight systemic issues in England’s healthcare

11-year prison sentence for Kildare man who locked his ex in a car to viciously beat her

Anthony Mockler, a Kildare man, receives an 11-year prison term for a vicious attack on his ex-partner, leaving her permanently scarred. Despite a history of violence, he faces stringent conditions upon release.

Athlone man remanded in custody following attack on nursing home patient

Peter Keaney, 54, faces charges for attacking an elderly woman at Sonas Nursing Home, Athlone. He appeared in court, accompanied by his solicitor, seeking a psychiatric assessment.

Former scout leader and “prolific paedophile” sentenced to prison

Jim Harmon, a former scout leader, was sentenced to six years and eight months for sexually assaulting five boys in Clare and Limerick during the 1970s and 1980s.

Former DUP Leader faces historical sex charges at Newry Court

Jeffrey Donaldson, former leader of the DUP, appeared at Newry Magistrates’ Court to respond to charges of historical sexual offences, while a 58-year-old woman faces related charges.

Abuse survivor waives anonymity as her father is sentenced to 13 years in prison

Patrick Honan, 69, of Doonbeg, Co Clare, was sentenced to 13 years in prison for abusing his daughter Noreen for 13 years. Noreen bravely waived her anonymity to seek justice.

Mother of 11-year-old suicide victim settles legal battle

Fiona Tuomey, mother of 11-year-old Milly Tuomey, who tragically died by suicide, reaches a €65,000 settlement in her lawsuit, highlighting systemic failures in youth psychiatric care. If you’ve been affected, seek support.

Hundreds of complaints against single dentist highlights need for regulatory overhaul

Dentist Anne Hahessy from Oranmore, Co Galway, faces over 1,500 complaints. Despite this, regulatory gaps persist in ensuring patient safety and effective oversight in the dental profession.

Lack of learning and transparency to blame for rising hospital liabilities

Hospital liabilities in Ireland are projected to surpass €4 billion. Experts stress transparency and external investigations to reduce claims and improve patient trust.

Woman dies of internal bleeding after giving birth

Post-partum haemorrhage (PPH) remains a leading cause of maternal death worldwide. The recent tragic case at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, highlights the risks and growing concerns about maternal healthcare in Ireland.

Report reveals 93 abuse complaints against Jesuit Priest

Former Jesuit priest Joseph Marmion faces 93 abuse complaints. A recent report highlights failures in handling allegations, urging more victims to come forward.

Children’s spinal surgery review delayed as new cases emerge at Temple Street Children’s Hospital

An independent review of spinal surgeries at Temple Street Children’s Hospital has been delayed due to 17 new “cases of concern,” doubling the number of procedures under scrutiny.

Galway University Hospital apologises after baby is born “head first” on to the floor

Galway University Hospital apologises for shortcomings in care that led to Baby Chelsie McDonagh’s death after she fell headfirst to the floor during delivery.

High Court awards nearly €100,000 for defective dental treatment

A Galway woman was awarded €100,000 for defective dental treatment, experiencing severe pain and infections due to negligent work by dental practitioners in Ennis, Co Clare.

HSE commission comprehensive review of nursing home where resident was raped

The HSE announces a thorough review of nursing home records after a staff member’s rape conviction. Concerns about further incidents prompt broader scrutiny despite potential distress to affected families.

Report of Boston Children’s Hospital on Spinal Surgeries at CHI Temple Street

The CHI have today published the report of Boston Children’s Hospital on spinal surgeries carried out on young patients with Spina Bifida.

Children’s Health Ireland Report on Spinal Surgery for Patients with Spina Bifida at Temple Street

Children’s Health Ireland released a report on spinal surgeries for Spina Bifida patients at Temple Street Hospital, highlighting serious post-operative incidents and ongoing investigations into surgical outcomes from 2018 to 2022.

Minister for Health announces full national review of all children’s orthopaedic surgery

Minister for Health announces a comprehensive review of children’s orthopaedic surgery in Ireland, focusing on safety concerns and long waiting times, following Temple Street Children’s Hospital issues.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expresses serious concern on alleged failures at Temple Street Hospital

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar expresses deep concern over severe complications from spinal surgeries at Temple Street Children’s Hospital, prompting a comprehensive review by a UK expert into the incidents and use of unapproved devices.

External review launched by HSE into care of children with Spina Bifida at CHI Temple Street

Following a child’s death during spinal surgery at Temple Street Children’s Hospital, the HSE has initiated an external review of clinical care for Spina Bifida patients led by UK expert Mr Selvadurai Nayagam.

New data reveals dramatic regional disparities in access to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Care

Over half of the children and adolescents referred to their local CAMHS are being denied access in certain regions of the country.

External review into the delivery of babies who suffered Subgaleal Haemorrhages at birth in University Hospital Galway

A review of maternity deliveries at University Hospital Galway will investigate cases of subgaleal haemorrhage in newborns, focusing on difficult deliveries involving vacuum extractors. Coleman Legal LLP supports affected families who are seeking answers.

Over 3,000 fatalities caused by accidents within the HSE since 2018

New HSE data reveals 3,000 deaths from 480,000 incidents since 2018, highlighting falls, assaults, and medication issues. Calls for reforms and investment grow as incident numbers peak in the last year.

Spiritan Congregation agrees to settlement in Rockwell College sexual abuse claim

Derek McCarthy settled his claim against the Spiritan Congregation for abuse suffered at Rockwell College in the 70s, marking a step towards his healing.