150 Mr. L. Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of defending the Jamie Sinnott legal case; and the amounts spent by his Department in other similar legal cases since 1997. [22951/01]

Details of the total costs involved in defending the case in question are not yet available to my Department.

In addition to the legal costs, a total of £222,500 was awarded to Mr. Sinnott and £55,000 was awarded to Mrs. Kathryn Sinnott. These ex gratia awards have been paid.

The level of agreed damages/settlements and legal costs paid in respect of cases taken against the State on behalf of children with special needs since 1997 is being compiled in my Department and will be forwarded to the Deputy.

Question No. 151 answered with Question No. 134.