A 52-year-old traffic warden who was abused by motorists gave up his job after being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, the High Court in Cork heard yesterday.
Mr Michael Collins from Cork city resigned from the local corporation in 2000 because he felt he could no longer cope with his job of eight years.
He claimed that motorists spat at him after he issued tickets or they became threatening or argumentative.
The court was told the working environment provided by the local authority was a health hazard as the traffic wardens worked out of a rat-infested building.
Mr Collins was seen by a psychiatrist who diagnosed him as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.
The psychiatrist urged the traffic warden to look for alternative employment.
Mr Collins is seeking damages in excess of €30,000 from Cork Corporation. The case continues today before Mr Justice John Quirke.