Irishman whose wife died after eating sardines at French restaurant plans legal action

An Irishman whose wife died after eating sardines at a restaurant in France during the Rugby World Cup is planning legal action.

Cathal Meehan's wife Marie Grypioti died of botulism after eating at a wine bar in Bordeaux around the time Ireland were playing Romania in the French city.

The Mayo man is seeking help to raise funds to take legal action against the wine bar and two hospitals. He has so far raised €20,000 of a €100,000 target.

On the GoFundMe post, he wrote: "Thank you for all your kind messages and support over the past month. The passing of Marie has been incredibly heartbreaking and devastating. She was a kind, intelligent person who made friends everywhere she went. She was universally loved and a force of nature.

"Marie was my life partner, and I am unsure how I can move forward without her. She will always remain in our hearts and memories," he added.

He said "we are pursuing charges" against the restaurateur and two hospitals that he claims inappropriately discharged Marie.

"Marie deserves nothing less than justice. Those responsible for this tragic loss must be held accountable, and necessary systemic changes must be implemented to ensure that no other individual or family has to go through such a tragic event ever again," Cathal said.

"We can create a legacy for Marie that compels hospitals and restaurants to provide safer services. In Bordeaux we were joined in the restaurant by our friend Andrew Clarke who also fell severely ill. We're both now out of the hospital and recovering.

"If you would like to support us, please consider donating to our legal fund, as we expect this process to be lengthy and costly."

You can see more from the fundraiser HERE.