The new directive includes presumptions reversing the conventional burden of proof on plaintiffs to prove defect or causation in cases where plaintiffs with a plausible case face exceptional difficulties of proof due to technical or scientific complexity, such as in medical devices, pharmaceuticals or vaccines cases.

The Product Liability Forum of the British Institute of International and Comparative Law will host a conference to examine the likely effects of the new directive on Thursday 26 September 2024 at 5.15pm in the Distillery Building.

The conference will also discuss issues of litigation funding and what type of procedure for multiparty actions might suit Ireland in light of experience in England and the Netherlands.

Mr Justice Maurice Collins of the Supreme Court and Professor Geraint Howells of University of Galway will chair the sessions, with panellists including Michael Cush SC, Eileen Barrington SC, Roddy Bourke, London solicitors Sarah Moore of Leigh Day and David Kidman of Simmons & Simmons, and Ianika Tzankova of Tilburg University in the Netherlands.

There is no admission charge and a reception will follow the meeting. To register, email eventsregistration@biicl.org.