The High Court will decide this morning what damages are to be awarded to a woman (45) who was sexually abused by a neighbour as a little girl in north Dublin.

Sinead McCarthy Garofalo of Palmerstown Wood is suing her attacker Bernard Delaney, a former accountant, who is currently serving a sentence in Arbour Hill prison.

Bernard Delaney was described in court as a pied piper figure. He played guitar for the local children in Fairview and their parents were delighted because he was looking after them.

Sinead McCarthy played with his daughter and she initially thought him charming and fun. But he began to abuse her at the age of four.

It went on for ten years and some of the abuse was of a most violent nature. She told the court of anorexia and suicide attempts and said she was left feeling worthless and a burden.

She’s suing Bernard Delaney for damages. He’s not contesting the case but the court heard he has transferred all his assets to his wife.

Mr Justice George Bermingham will decide today how much Sinead McCarthy should receive for her suffering.