Anthony Burke, former European financial controller for refrigeration giant Thermo King, yesterday took the stand to defend himself against allegations of breach of contract.

Mr Burke, who was dismissed from his IR£140,000 (€177,760) a year job in March 2000, claims that an agreement was never reached with Thermo King over his severance package.

Thermo King, meanwhile, alleges that a settlement was agreed by both parties on the evening of October 6th, 2000, following what the prosecution described as "lengthy" negotiations.

Mr Burke, who is representing himself, contested allegations by the prosecution that he only questioned the existence of an agreement a few months after the alleged October 6th settlement once he had taken tax advice and realised he was not going to get £160,000 of his £310,000 payout tax free. Mr Burke claims this was a prerequisite to him agreeing to the settlement, as was an immediate pension and the allocation of share options to which he was entitled.

The prosecution claims such a large amount could not be given tax free, even in the case of personal injury.

Mr Burke, of Roscam, Galway, is also being sued by his former solicitor, Ivor Fitzpatrick & Co, for costs.

The case continues.