THE family of a man who died while felling trees at Norelands Stud in Co Kilkenny in 2010 has settled a High Court action for over €2 million.

George Williams Jnr (37) died when the branch of a tree fell on him as he worked felling trees. His wife Louise sought compensation from stud owner Harry McCalmont.

The court heard how Williams and a colleague were ordered to cut down three trees on the day. One of them proved difficult to fell and a bough broke off the tree and fell on Williams. He died at the scene due to multiple traumatic injuries. Mr Williams’ daughters were aged seven and two years at the time.

In the proceedings, it was claimed there was a failure to provide Williams with a safe system of work including training, and that he had been required to engage in felling mature trees in circumstances where he had no experience of forestry work.

It was further claimed there was a failure to conduct a risk assessment in relation to the nature of the task Williams was required to undertake and a failure to warn him of the dangers of felling mature trees.

It was also claimed there was a failure to employ adequately qualified tree surgeons to engage in the felling of mature or diseased timber.

It was further alleged there was a failure to provide approved protective equipment or protective clothing.

Mr Justice Coffey was told that liability was admitted in the case, and it had been before the court for assessment of damages only.