A man who attempted to unblock a sewerage overflow in his new Co Meath home developed an acute salmonella infection, Dublin Circuit Civil Court has been told. Mr Derek Clarke, of Meadowbank Hill, Ratoath, yesterday accepted a £10,000 settlement.
Judge Elizabeth Dunne held builders Saltan Properties Ltd, St Michael's Close, Dublin, two-thirds responsible for the blockage and payment of damages.
Judge Dunne, who was told building debris had been left in the sewer following completion of the house, held sub-contractors D.C. Mechanical Ltd, Naas Road, Dublin, a third responsible.
Mr Feargal Kavanagh, counsel for Mr Clarke, said the Clarke family moved into their new home in July 1996. Within four days a blockage in the sewer pipe caused raw sewage to flow into the shower tray off the main bedroom.
Mr Kavanagh said the Clarkes were unable to remain in the house until the blockage was cleared by the builder. Shortly afterwards there was another blockage and after trying to plunge it clear, Mr Clarke became ill.
He was referred to Cherry Orchard Fever Hospital where an acute salmonella infection was diagnosed. He was in hospital for eight days and had been off work for five weeks.