A seven-figure settlement has been reached in a lawsuit over sexual abuse allegations at the Celtic Boys Club in Scotland, a law firm has revealed.
Law firm Thompsons Solicitors is representing around 30 former Celtic Boys Club players and says around 70% of cases have been settled with Celtic Plc, with further agreements expected in the coming weeks.
The case concerns abuse at a youth club, which was not formally connected to Celtic Football Club, by convicted paedophiles James Torbett and Frank Cairney.
Laura Connor, partner at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Our clients have trusted us to represent them in these complex cases and ensure their voices are heard.
“The defense has significantly complicated and delayed this trial, while our clients have acted with resolute dignity throughout.
“They have finally achieved success and can take this compensation as confirmation that the Celtic Boys Club was truly inextricably linked with Celtic Football Club.”
A judge had previously allowed the class action to proceed in Scotland's highest civil court, the Court of Session in Edinburgh.
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Lawyers for Celtic Plc argued in court that the claim should not proceed, arguing that the men's club was a completely separate entity, but Judge Lord Arthurson ruled the case could proceed.
Celtic Football Club has appealed for comment and previously said it was “shocked by any form of historical insult”.
Class actions are similar to class actions in the US and were introduced in Scotland in 2020.
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
