Barry O’ConnorBBC News NI
Family handoutThe family of a Catholic teenager shot dead by the British Army 48 years ago has obtained a “significant” settlement in their High Court claim for damages.
Michael Neill was killed in disputed circumstances on the Cliftonville Road, north Belfast, on 24 October 1977.
The 16-year-old boy was shot three times, reportedly while trying to escape from a military patrol in the area.
He had been in the vicinity of an attempted bus hijacking, according to claims at the time.
However, his family insisted he posed no threat to the life or safety of either the soldier who shot him or anyone else at the scene.
The following year an inquest into his death returned an open verdict.
Michael’s sister, Mary Griffin, sued the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for negligence, trespass and misfeasance in public office over the circumstances surrounding his death.
A trial in the civil action was due to begin at the High Court in Belfast on Monday.
But counsel for Ms Griffin, Desmond Fahy KC, announced that a settlement had been reached on confidential terms which involved no admission of liability.
“This marks the end of a long process and journey for the plaintiff,” he told the court.
Commending the family, Mr Justice Rooney said: “It’s clearly been a difficult case for all of the relatives, and it makes sense if it can be resolved amicably.”
PA MediaIn a statement, the family’s solicitor Padraig Ó Muirigh said the outcome was reached after weeks of negotiations.
“The confidential nature of the settlement prevents me disclosing the terms,” he added.
“I can confirm, though, that the settlement is significant and our client is satisfied with the outcome of this litigation.”
Ms Griffin confirmed the family was happy with the resolution reached in their “long journey”.
She said: “Our brother was a happy-go-lucky young man who was taken from us too early.
“Although it is almost 50 years since his untimely death, he is in our thoughts every day.”
