A false allegation of indecent assault against a teacher at a Lisburn school could cost the South Eastern Education and Library Board an estimated £50,000 after an out-of-court settlement.
David Bell, the technology and design teacher at Laurelhill Community College, who is at the centre of the dispute, was awarded £7,500 in damages at the Bar Library in Belfast this week.
Last night he told the Belfast Telegraph he was "very unhappy" with the outcome after confirming the figure came about as a result of a verbal agreement between the parties on Thursday.
"I never wanted money. It was never the issue. All I asked for was an apology," Mr Bell said.
"At an estimate from our lawyer, the SEELB will face final costs of up to £50,000. That's the value to which the board is now going to have to sack teachers and classroom assistants to make up the hole in its budget....." (more)