We reported on the sale of Our Lady's Psychiatric Hospital, Cork, in our issue of July 2nd 1996.
We accept that Mr Nicholas S. Hughes, the principal of the firm of Hughes & McEvilly, solicitors, acting for the Southern Health Board in the transaction did so with due diligence, as instructed by his clients, in accordance with the advice of counsel and without any delay. In particular, any suggestion that Mr Nicholas S. Hughes or his firm Messrs Hughes and McEvilly, delayed closing to facilitate Power Corporation was unintended, unwarranted and is withdrawn.
We also accept that the firm of Conway Kelleher Tobin (with which Messrs Hughes & McEvilly merged) does not, and never has acted, for Power Corporation or any of its subsidiaries.
The Irish Times regrets any embarrassment or distress caused to Mr Hughes by the publication of the report and has made a contribution to a charity nominated by Mr Hughes.