“I’m incredibly proud of Gabe,” Ms Mawhinney said.
“He is an amazing person because he has a really strong sense of justice.”
She said one of the things Gabriel “was most upset about” was that there were other boys who he couldn’t help and “that sense of helplessness has really impacted him”.
“Today brings closure after a horrendous two-year ordeal. We are delighted obviously with the outcome and we now hope that Gabe can start to heal and get on with his life.”
The family’s solicitor, Victoria Haddock, said: “This settlement is a welcome vindication for our client who should never had had to take legal action following a rugby school trip.”
In a statement Ulster Rugby, which runs the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup, said it acknowledges the settlement made.
“What is reported does not align with the values of rugby, or the behaviours we expect from those involved in the game,” it added.
“This is an issue for Methodist College Belfast, but we will be engaging with the school to ensure we promote rugby as an inclusive and enjoyable game for all.”
