A judge yesterday warned building and electrical contractors they were obliged to take the greatest care in ensuring the safety and proper security of building sites.
The President of the Circuit Court, Mr Justice Esmond Smyth, said negligence in a case in which a schoolboy narrowly escaped death by electrocution constituted reckless disregard for his safety.
The court heard that Anthony Camilleri (12), of Whitebarn Road, Churchtown, Dublin, grabbed live electricity wires while taking a shortcut across partly demolished premises on Braemor Road, Churchtown, Dublin.
He had been thrown into a trench and "bravely limped home" while suffering from pains in his arms, legs and stomach. He had made a good recovery following hospital treatment.
The judge awarded £6,500, including aggravated damages, against site owner Mr Gus Corrigan, Churchtown, Dublin; builders Rosehill Construction Ltd, Ballinteer, Dublin, and JEG Electrical Ltd, Cabinteely.