Dana wins six-figure sum in damages from newspaper

EUROVISION Song Contest winner and former politician Dana Rosemary Scallon is to receive a six-figure sum in damages to settle a newspaper libel action.

An apology was also read out at the High Court in Belfast on behalf of the Sunday World’s publishers over false claims connected to her brother John Brown.

In 2014 Mr Brown was unanimously acquitted of historic child sex abuse charges.

Ms Scallon (right) sued after an online report wrongly alleged she had given evidence at her brother’s trial about steps taken in relation to him. Those claims were completely without any foundation. Outside court Ms Scallon, a former Irish presidential candidate, said she brought the lawsuit because the article falsely stated she had covered-up child abuse.

“The story was a direct and brutal attack on all that I believe and value, and on my good name, my integrity, my character and my public Scallon. These groundless allegations defamed Dana Rosemary Scallon and reflected very badly on her character, good name and reputation.”

Mr Lockhart continued: “We unreservedly withdraw these allegations and have agreed to pay to Dana Rosemary Scallon a six-figure sum in damages and her legal costs.

“We wish to apologise sincerely to her for the distress and harm caused to her family.”