Carpenter Sues Intel Over Alleged Toxic Chemical Exposure at Leixlip Plant

Mark Callan has been left with a very significant, lasting, and disabling chronic asthmatic condition, the court hears.

Original article published on theirishtimes.com.

Mark Callan, a carpenter from Ballyoran, Dundalk, Co. Louth, has launched a High Court action claiming exposure to toxic chemicals while working at the Intel Ireland plant in Leixlip, Co. Kildare. Represented by Tiernan & Co., Mr. Callan asserts that this exposure has led to a severe, chronic asthmatic condition.

Opening the case, senior counsel Barney Quirke stated that Mr. Callan was part of a crew of 17 workers who developed symptoms such as asthma, headaches, and vomiting, which are indicative of exposure to the chemical Penatron. Mr. Quirke described the method used to mix Penatron as “primitive and Dickensian,” involving a regular bucket. This method was later changed to a more sophisticated system following the appearance of the alleged cluster of affected workers.

Mr. Callan’s hospitalisation in January 2014 with symptoms including headaches and vomiting raised further concerns among the crew. At the time, the work was being conducted by Ardmac Ltd, based in Swords, Co. Dublin. Mr. Quirke highlighted that a chemical alarm system frequently activated as the crew’s work intensified, suggesting ongoing exposure to harmful substances.

Mr. Callan, now 50, has sued his employer, Ardmac Ltd, Intel Ltd, and Intel Ireland Ltd. He claims that from July 2013 to August 2014, he was exposed to toxic chemicals, including Penatron/ASTC 3003c, while working at the Intel plant. The lawsuit contends that the system of work exposed Mr. Callan and his colleagues to sensitising agents over a prolonged period, causing their symptoms to worsen while at work and improve when away.

Both Ardmac and Intel deny all claims, and full defences have been filed, as noted by Ms. Justice Denise Brett.