Mr Patsy McGlone (Mid Ulster): To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) how much has the decision to appeal the industrial tribunal finding in the case of Dr Tamara Bronckaers cost taxpayers to date; and (ii) how much is it expected to cost once completed.
Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs: The latest estimate of legal costs on this case between my Department and Dr Tamara Bronckaers is £309k. This covers both the costs of the Industrial Tribunal and those of the Court of Appeal as Departmental Solicitor’s Office billed these under one case file as both elements were so closely linked. This is in addition to the Industrial Tribunal Settlement to Dr Bronckaers of £1,250k.
Legal work continues on this case as it has not been discharged and final costs will only be determined at that time.
ENDS
Your MLA 