The Court of Appeal declared Osgur Breatnach's 1978 conviction for the Sallins mail train robbery a miscarriage of justice. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, sitting with Mr Justice John Edwards and Mr Justice Paul Burns, granted the certificate based on Breatnach's asserted factual innocence and a newly discovered fact regarding John Fitzpatrick's alibi. The Director of Public Prosecutions did not dispute that Fitzpatrick's alibi constituted a newly discovered fact. Breatnach, who was originally sentenced to 12 years in prison by the Special Criminal Court, had his conviction quashed in 1980 after the Court of Criminal Appeal ruled his confession was obtained under oppression. He spent 18 months in custody before release. In his affidavit, Breatnach stated he had "no hand, act or part" in the robbery, a claim the DPP did not contest. Counsel Patrick Gageby SC argued that Fitzpatrick's alibi, which was never tested in court because Fitzpatrick disappeared before being charged, cast substantial doubt on all related convictions. The court found the threshold for a miscarriage of justice certificate was met. Mr Justice Edwards ordered that costs follow the event, as the applicant was completely successful. Breatnach, speaking outside court, described himself and the other "Sallins Men" as victims of serious crimes and renewed his call for an independent public inquiry into their treatment.
The Court of Appeal has set a date in December to hear an application by a Polish cage fighter who is seeking to have his conviction for the murder of a 23-year-old man who was beaten unconscious and left to drown in the River Shannon declared a miscarriage of justice. Leszek Sychulec's legal team told the court today that they had written to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) seeking disclosure regarding an article published about a garda allegedly involved in organised crime who is connected to the case. Sychulec, now in his 40s, and his co-accused, Andrzej Gruchacz, had pleaded not guilty to murdering Patryk Krupa at Bogganfin, Athlone, Co Roscommon on June 20th, 2014. Mr Krupa drowned in the Shannon outside Athlone while incapacitated with a head injury from a violent assault. A Central Criminal Court jury deliberated for five hours before reaching unanimous guilty verdicts. The defendants were accordingly given mandatory life sentences by Mr Justice Tony Hunt on June 13, 2016.
A tech worker who was promised a €150,000-a-year salary but received only €11,500 over eleven months has been awarded €126,000 in back pay by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The employee, who left a permanent job to join the tech firm, faced severe financial hardship, including falling behind on mortgage payments, electricity bills, and loan repayments. She was unable to heat her home during freezing weather and faced marital difficulties due to the financial strain. The CEO of the company assured her that wages would be paid in full, but no payments were made beyond the initial €11,500. The WRC found that the worker was owed 11 months of salary at €12,500 per month, less the €11,500 already paid. The adjudicator noted that the company did not attend the hearing, and the decision was based on the worker's uncontested evidence. The case highlights the importance of timely wage payments and the consequences of non-compliance with the Payment of Wages Act 1991.
A Polish cage fighter serving a life sentence for the 2014 murder of a 23-year-old man in Co Roscommon has brought proceedings before the Court of Appeal seeking to have his conviction declared a miscarriage of justice. Leszek Sychulec, now in his 40s and previously resident in Ballymahon, Co Longford, was convicted alongside co-accused Andrzej Gruchacz in June 2016 of murdering Patryk Krupa at Athlone. The victim drowned in the River Shannon after suffering a head injury sustained during a violent assault. A jury returned unanimous guilty verdicts following five hours of deliberation, and mandatory life sentences were imposed. An earlier appeal in 2018 upheld both convictions. At a case management hearing before Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy on 15 May, Sychulec's legal representatives submitted that a miscarriage of justice arose from undisclosed material relevant to State witnesses. The court adjourned the matter to 3 July to allow the prosecution and defence to resolve disclosure issues, with an affidavit containing new evidence to be filed by 15 June. Andrzej Gruchacz pleaded not guilty.
Two men who were high on laughing gas and randomly attacked a woman have been told by a judge that some crimes cannot be walked away from. The attack occurred on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, where the woman was pushed to the ground and assaulted. The victim suffered injuries and had her phone stolen. CCTV footage captured the attackers, identified as Craig Mains (28) and Shane Daly (27). Both pleaded guilty to assault and related charges. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as savage and an outrage. Mains received a three-year sentence with the final 18 months suspended, while Daly received a three-month suspended sentence. Both were placed under probation supervision. The victim was commended for her resilience. The defendants expressed remorse and offered financial compensation. Mains has a history of drug use and is in treatment, while Daly is drug-free and has no recent convictions.
A former accountant pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to theft and deception offences committed over six weeks in early 2025. Michelle Dillon, aged 59 and homeless, stole a bank card and medical card from an elderly patient at a Dublin hospital on 20 February. She subsequently travelled to Cork, Clare, Meath, Westmeath and Wicklow, presenting herself as the legitimate account holder at various banks to withdraw approximately €8,000 in cash. She also made contactless payments totalling €133. Withdrawals occurred in Cork city, Bray, Dublin city centre, Navan, Athlone and Ennis. When presenting at an AIB branch in Navan on 4 March, a warning mark was active on the account, yet she convinced staff she was the genuine holder. She was arrested in October 2025 at Cavan General Hospital after presenting under a false name. The victim's bank refunded all monies. Judge Elma Sheahan described the initial theft as despicable and the subsequent deceptions as planned, premeditated and brazen.
A man who killed a pensioner with an MMA-style back spin kick has been jailed for five years. Joshua Rush (25) pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Charles McCaughley (69) at Fairview Strand, Dublin 3 on June 7, 2021. The court heard that Rush delivered a deliberate kick to the victim, who later died from a traumatic brain injury. Judge Martina Baxter described the attack as unprovoked and called Rush's actions callous. She sentenced him to six-and-a-half years in prison, with the final 18 months suspended on conditions. Rush expressed genuine remorse and has no previous convictions. His sister, the victim's closest relative, did not want to see anyone jailed for his death. Rush's defence highlighted his difficult family background and mental health issues, asking the court to consider his culpability as low.
A young man who killed a pensioner with an MMA-style kick which caused him to fall to the ground and suffer a fatal head injury, has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing next month. Joshua Rush (25) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the manslaughter of Charles McCaughley (69) at Fairview Strand, Fairview, Dublin 3 on June 7, 2021. Shortly before the incident, Mr McCaughley ordered fish and chips from a takeaway where staff said he "was in good form", Detective Sergeant David Ennis previously told Diana Stuart SC, prosecuting. Another witness waiting for a bus told gardai that he saw three youths passing an older man as he walked along Fairview Strand. He said he saw one of the young men – Rush – employ a "back spin kick, like MMA" on the older man, causing him to fall on his back. The trio left the scene and were seen entering accommodation nearby. When the witness ran to his assistance, Mr McCaughley was unconscious and there was blood coming from his mouth.
In a Court of Appeal hearing on 17 April 2026, the prison term for 29‑year‑old Martin Gooney was increased from three years and two months to four and a half years after the State successfully appealed. Gooney had pleaded guilty in February 2025 to coercive control and sexual assault, and was originally sentenced by Ms Justice Caroline Biggs at the Central Criminal Court on 3 June 2025. The appeal focused on the severity of his conduct, which included hiding in the victim's shed to spy on her, threatening to hang her pet dog, and sending messages to her family purporting to be from her that expressed suicidal ideation. The Court of Appeal judge, Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, described the offences as "grave" and "extremely manipulative", noting that Gooney had a history of nine prior convictions, including assault and threats of serious harm.
Joshua Rush pleaded guilty to manslaughter after a kick caused Charles McCaughley to fall and suffer a fatal brain injury on Fairview Strand. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court adjourned sentencing-related matters while gardai seek more information about McCaughley's background.
A murderer who claimed he was acting in self-defence when he stabbed his ex-partner's boyfriend to death has failed in an appeal against his conviction. Nassar Ahmed (45) of The Mews, Kilrush Road, Ennis, had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Eoin Boylan (32) at Gordon Drive, Cloughleigh, Ennis, on April 14th, 2020. The trial jury found Ahmed guilty of murder after deliberating for just two hours and five minutes, rejecting his claim of self-defence. Ahmed was sentenced to life imprisonment by Ms Justice Eileen Creedon in July 2022. The prosecution argued that Ahmed had invited Boylan to a fist fight and then stabbed him in a 'sneak attack' while concealing a knife. Ahmed told gardaí he grabbed a sharp object but could not remember what it was or where he threw it. The prosecution described his lies as 'borderline laughable'. The jury watched CCTV footage showing Boylan retreating from the attack. Ahmed admitted to unlawfully killing Boylan but claimed self-defence. The jury rejected his claim, finding he was the aggressor.
A court heard that Craig Mains (28) of Hazelcroft Park, Finglas, Dublin 11, and Shane Daly (27) of Woodhazel Close, Ballymun, Dublin 11, were high on laughing gas when they carried out a random unprovoked assault on a woman on Seamus Ennis Road, Finglas, north Dublin, on the evening of July 18, 2021. The woman was pushed to the ground and suffered injuries including a split lip, cuts to her knee, blood on her face and clothing, and a fractured elbow. One of the men took her mobile phone and damaged it. CCTV footage from a nearby funeral home captured the incident. Both men pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and criminal damage of an iPhone. Daly also pleaded guilty to assault. The robbery charges were dropped by the Director of Public Prosecutions. Daly has 23 previous convictions, including one for affray with a suspended prison sentence earlier this month. Mains has five previous convictions, all for road traffic offences. The victim submitted a victim impact report, which the judge said he would take into consideration. Both defendants expressed remorse and offered apologies. Daly handed over €2,000, and Mains brought €1,000 to court. The matter was adjourned to May 12, 2025, for finalisation, with both men remanded on continuing bail to that date.
A once-aspiring model, Ana Coretchi, has been awarded €80K in damages by the High Court after suffering first-degree burns and scarring on her legs following a laser hair-removal treatment in 2020. Ms Coretchi, who was preparing her portfolio for a full-time modelling career, claimed that the procedure left her with lasting burns and scarring. The court heard that she suffered extensive brown discolouration and skin ulceration, which were confirmed by a GP. A dermatologist consultant noted that she had extensive white hypopigmentation on her posterior thighs, which may be permanent. Ms Coretchi experienced a burning sensation for three weeks and had to put her modelling career on hold due to the injuries. The court awarded her €80K in general damages, noting the impact on her self-view and career path. The judge was satisfied of negligence on the part of the clinic and awarded the damages to the plaintiff.
Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator Brian Dalton ruled in favour of therapist Nora Martin, awarding her €105,567.38 for unfair dismissal and employment rights breaches against Genesis Psychotherapy and Family Therapy Service Ltd. The adjudicator found that Martin's selection for redundancy was "not fair" and "tainted by a personal animus," describing the employer's conduct as "egregious." He determined there was "no evidence supporting any criminal wrongdoing" regarding fraud allegations related to a 2013 fundraiser, nor any case of bullying. Martin was awarded €90,000 for losses arising from unfair dismissal, €6,227 for non-payment of statutory notice, and €9,340.38 in unpaid wages. The adjudicator rejected the respondent's argument that the delay prejudiced the company, noting the employer had originally sought the 2017 adjournment pending a High Court defamation action. That defamation case remains live. Richard Trehy, the charity's finance manager, was a named subject in the proceedings; he was deceased by the time the WRC heard the substance of the complaint. The matter was previously adjourned in 2017 at the company's request, but the WRC proceeded to a final decision on the employment claims.
Raymond Donovan (44), who murdered his ex-girlfriend 21 years ago, had his claim that the Court of Criminal Appeal had substituted his life sentence with a 20-year term dismissed by the High Court. Mr Justice Garrett Simons ruled that Donovan had no basis for his claim and that it caused distress to the victim's family. Donovan, formerly of New Houses, Cooraclare, Co Clare, strangled his former girlfriend, Ann Walsh (23), to death in 2005. He launched a High Court bid for release, claiming the Court of Appeal had substituted his sentence, but no detention warrant proved this. The court found that the Central Criminal Court could not direct any other sentence than the mandatory life imprisonment for murder. Donovan's application was dismissed, and the judge said there was no basis for his claim of legality over his imprisonment. Raymond Donovan was convicted.
Convicted murderer Raymond Donovan has applied to the High Court for his release from prison, claiming that the Court of Appeal replaced his life sentence with a 20-year term. Donovan, who strangled his former girlfriend Ann Walsh to death on the grounds of a church in 2005, was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2006. He now argues that the Court of Appeal substituted his sentence, and that prison authorities do not have the necessary documents to justify his continued detention. In an ex-parte application, Donovan's legal team successfully sought permission to inquire into his detention, citing Article 40.4.2 of the Constitution. He claims that prison officials have provided him with documents indicating a 20-year sentence, but he has been unable to obtain a copy of the Court of Appeal's warrant. Donovan is seeking a full inquiry into the legality of his detention and potentially bail. The High Court has adjourned the matter for further proceedings. At his trial, Donovan admitted to choking Ms Walsh but claimed he did not intend to kill her.
The Special Criminal Court heard that seven men conspired to import up to 600kg of cocaine, valued at up to €42 million, into Ireland. The defendants, Miljan Koprivica, Conor Costello, Gary Monks, Ryan Watson, Hanz Pangahin, Christopher Ampo, and Feljon Lao, all entered guilty pleas to conspiring to import drugs in excess of €13,000 under section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. Evidence presented by a Detective Inspector alleged the group operated in structured cells under the control of unidentified individuals. Three Filipino defendants were accused of loading the drugs onto the MV Royal in the Amazon, while four others with UK addresses formed a landing cell intended to collect the cocaine via a rigid inflatable boat. The landing crew was arrested at Meenogahane pier in County Kerry on January 12, 2025, after allegedly completing the transfer. The three men on the ship were subsequently arrested between January 15 and 17, 2025. The court heard that the defendants were instructed by figures using pseudonyms such as "Emaar Boss" and "Albert," and that EncroChat devices were used for coordination. The sentence hearing was adjourned to continue before Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, sitting with Judges Sarah Berkeley and Fiona Lydon.
Nassar Ahmed, 45, of Ennis, is appealing his murder conviction for the killing of Eoin Boylan, 32, at Gordon Drive, Cloughleigh, Ennis, on April 14, 2020. Ahmed had pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, claiming self-defence. However, a jury unanimously found him guilty of murder, rejecting his defence and accepting the prosecution's allegation that he stabbed Boylan three times in a "sneak attack" after inviting him to a fist fight while concealing a knife. In July 2022, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon sentenced Ahmed to the mandatory term of life imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court. During the appeal hearing, Michael Bowman SC, representing Ahmed, argued that the trial judge erred in her ruling on how certain evidence was presented, contending that the verdicts should be set aside. Conversely, Lorcan Staines SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, asserted that the trial judge's ruling was entirely correct. The three-judge Court of Appeal, presided over by Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, reserved judgment and will deliver its decision at a later date. The matter was adjourned.
The Prison Service has been ordered to pay €60,000 in compensation and find a suitable post for a prison officer, Kim Dempsey, who was left out of work with a chronic back injury following a serious assault on duty in 2017. The assault occurred at Midlands Prison in Co Laois, and Dempsey has required ongoing physiotherapy and pain management treatment. Despite re-training and promotion, managers insisted her only options were to retire or take a pay cut to become an administrative worker. Dempsey's lawyers argued that the Irish Prison Service's chief medical officer deemed her unfit for general duties but capable of an office job without a long commute. Dempsey used her leave to gain a qualification for a work training officer (WTO) post, but was not allowed to take up the Cloverhill position due to the need for regular prison office duties. The State argued that Dempsey was not medically capable of returning to any training officer or prison officer role.
A part-time meat factory worker has won over €40,000 in compensation for sexual harassment and employment rights breaches after her boss approached her at her home and asked for a head massage. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator described the situation as "profoundly troubling," noting that the company director exploited the worker's financial vulnerability. The worker, who was a student in Ireland, was working part-time at Asba Meats Ltd in Shannon, Co Clare, and was relying on the company for a work permit. The tribunal heard that the worker's pay was delayed, and she was struggling to make rent and bill payments. The company director approached her on the premises and asked for her phone number, later texting her to meet at her home.
Adrienne Doyle, a mother-of-two, is challenging Bristol Myers Squibb's attempt to claw back parental leave payments she received in error. The tribunal heard that the company's eligibility criteria for enhanced parental leave was not communicated to Doyle at the time of her application, leading to an overpayment. The company initially demanded she repay €20,800 within three months, a request Doyle found unreasonable. The company later revised the amount to €2,000 less but still seeks repayment. Doyle argues that the company's failure to disclose the criteria constituted an error, and she is seeking a ruling that the payments were properly made. The tribunal is considering whether the company's actions were justified and whether the repayment demands are excessive. The case highlights the importance of clear communication of company policies to employees.
Michael Murphy, a solicitor with the Director of Public Prosecutions, brought an equality claim under the Employment Equality Act 1998 alleging discrimination because of his alcoholism. He claimed he was denied the opportunity to prepare murder cases and that his condition was not accommodated. The Workplace Relations Commission, after hearing evidence that Murphy had undergone residential treatment for alcoholism in early 2019 and had disclosed his condition to his line manager, found that his allegations were speculative. The adjudicator noted that Murphy had not formally requested a transfer or accommodation for health reasons and that his claims of unfair treatment were not supported by evidence. Consequently, the WRC rejected Murphy's claim, ruling that he had not been treated less favourably by the DPP. The decision was published on 18 November 2025.
Reece O'Brien, aged 23, pleaded guilty to money laundering and having the proceeds of crime, and was sentenced to two years and six months' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended for two years on strict conditions. He was found to have €5,595 in cash, cannabis, weighing scales, bagging equipment, a Volkswagen Golf, high‑value clothing and a PlayStation 5 in his apartment, all seized during a Garda search. O'Brien also spat at a Garda and threatened to "bite their faces off and kill them." Stephanie Boylan, aged 24, pleaded guilty to money laundering and received an 18‑month sentence, suspended for three years on strict conditions. Boylan had no prior convictions and was found to have paid for the car with cash from the proceeds of crime. Both defendants' pleas and youth were considered by Judge Orla Crowe.
In November 2025 the Workplace Relations Commission rejected Nico Holloway's complaint that he was penalised for whistleblowing about the condition of Citi Bus Ltd's (trading as Dublin Coach) intercity coaches. The tribunal found that Holloway had made protected disclosures under the 2014 Act, but that the company had legitimate grounds for a negative performance review and that his dismissal was not linked to those disclosures. Holloway, a South African permit worker who joined in 2023, said he raised a range of defects between October 2023 and January 2024, including a cracked windscreen, faulty wipers, and a door that flew open on the M7. He claimed the company dismissed him in January 2024 for "unsatisfactory performance" and for allegedly planning a "mass exodus" of drivers. The WRC concluded that any dispute over what constituted an urgent repair was a difference of opinion and that no whistleblower penalisation had occurred.
In a Workplace Relations Commission hearing, Thayane Sousa, a meatpacking worker at Asba Meats Ltd in Shannon, was awarded €20,000 after she claimed maternity discrimination. Sousa, who had worked intermittently at the halal plant since 2022, told her line manager she was pregnant about two weeks after returning from a break in July 2024. She said the manager then reassigned her to tasks outside her job description that were "significantly more physically demanding," such as boning meat, and reduced her working hours from 35 to as few as two days a week. Sousa's contract stipulated a 40‑hour week for €508, but she was paid at the national minimum wage. The tribunal found the evidence of reassignment and reduced hours uncontested, and concluded that Asba Meats had discriminated against her on the basis of gender. The decision was published on 4 November 2025 and marked the third ruling against the company in 18 months.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, a 41‑year‑old serial burglar, Thomas Redmond, received a five‑year prison sentence for breaking into a house in Clonskeagh, Dublin 14, where a mother and her infant were present. Redmond, who had previously lived in Ard Donagh, Ennistymon, Co Clare, had been on bail for a 2022 trespass offence in Stillorgan, Co Dublin, when he committed the 2024 burglary. He admitted that his typical method involved cycling around estates, checking for unoccupied houses, and then entering to steal and leave. When he realised occupants were present, he fled. The victim, a mother asleep with her baby, heard a loud doorbell and noise, saw Redmond running up the stairs, and pursued him to protect her child. She later described the psychological impact of the intrusion. Judge Martin Nolan accepted that Redmond's intent was to target empty houses and, upon discovering people inside, he attempted to escape. Thomas Redmond pleaded guilty.
Kieran O'Dea, aged 40, was sentenced to four years and nine months in custody after pleading guilty to possession for sale or supply of cannabis at Dublin Airport on 18 August 2024. He travelled to Thailand to collect drugs to repay a debt of €8,000 and was told by creditors that failure to comply would have consequences. O'Dea claimed he believed the bag contained clothing and a small amount of cannabis, but customs officers found 24 kg of cannabis, worth an estimated €480,000. He had a history of drug addiction since 2017, had previously been convicted of drug dealing and possession, and had attempted rehabilitation. The judge noted his efforts to overcome addiction but highlighted the substantial quantity of drugs involved in this offence.
Five men were sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for the false imprisonment and assault causing harm of Natalie Ennis at Henrietta House, Dublin 7, on September 26, 2024. All defendants pleaded guilty to the charges, with additional counts taken into consideration. Judge Pauline Codd described the incident as sadistic and cruel, noting the victim was beaten, burned, cut, and threatened. Braxton Rice, identified as the main ringleader, received a 15-year sentence, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions. Sean Conroy, described as a main mover, was sentenced to 13 years, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions. Mark McMahon, who facilitated the offence by providing his flat, received a 12-year sentence. His son, Mark Keogh, was jailed for nine years. Kian Walshe, who transported the victim and shared a recording of the attack, received an 11-year sentence, with the final two-and-a-half years suspended on strict conditions. The judge backdated all sentences to the date each man entered custody. She highlighted the aggravating factors, including the premediated nature of the attack and the defendants' bail status, while acknowledging their guilty pleas and personal circumstances.
Samantha Ward, a 30‑year‑old healthcare worker, was found with €182,450 of drug gang proceeds hidden in the bottom of a wardrobe at her home in Wheatfield Grove, Clondalkin. Gardaí received a confidential tip, obtained a search warrant, and raided the house where Ward lived with her husband, mother and brother. The cash was concealed behind a modified kickboard. Ward pleaded guilty to one count of possession of the proceeds of crime on 3 December 2023. She had no prior convictions. In court, her defence counsel said she cooperated with authorities and had a drug problem, using the money to pay a €5,000 debt. Judge Martin Nolan, noting her vulnerability and mitigation, imposed a headline sentence of six years but reduced it to three years effective from the sentencing date. No other charges were brought against her husband.
A 28‑year‑old man, Martin Gooney, pleaded guilty to coercive control and sexual assault. He was sentenced to three years and two months in prison, with a 12‑month post‑release supervision order. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, described how Gooney hid in her shed to spy on her, used her phone to send false messages, and repeatedly threatened her with violence, including a plan to hang her dog. He also sexually assaulted her in March 2021 and had other incidents of sexual assault. Gooney has nine prior convictions, including assault and threats of serious harm. He denied wrongdoing during the Garda interview but read a letter of apology at sentencing, claiming he was "young and stupid" and had no regard for the victim's feelings. The judge noted the victim's ongoing fear and the profound, long‑lasting impact of Gooney's actions.
Dan Dowling, a 41‑year‑old civil servant, and retired soldier Edward Horgan, 80, were tried in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for trespassing on a taxiway at Shannon Airport on 25 April 2017. They were found not guilty of criminal damage after writing "Danger, danger, don't fly" on American naval planes, but were convicted of trespass. Judge Martina Baxter ordered each to pay €5,000 to a women's refuge in County Clare. Dowling has appealed his conviction, arguing that his actions were necessary to prevent the transport of ammunition through Ireland and to protect others from an alleged "irreparable evil." Defence counsel Mark Lynam claimed the defence of necessity applied, while the Director of Public Prosecutions said there was insufficient evidence for such a defence. The Court of Appeal will reserve judgment.
Three Filipino swimming instructors recruited from the Philippines to teach in Ireland had hundreds of euros a week docked from their wages for alleged "training costs" before being dismissed. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) found no evidence that the swim school spent €3,000 training each worker. The instructors were hired on the promise of a better life in Ireland, but were forced to accept pay cuts or risk termination. The WRC heard that the school had paid for work permits, visas and flights, but claimed the training cost €3,000 per worker. The school relied on agreements signed in English without translation or legal advice. The WRC ruled the deductions illegal, awarded each of the three workers €2,307.68, and ordered the school to pay a total of €11,939.53 to the group. The case was heard in Ennis, Co Clare, in November and December 2024. The company and employees remain anonymised due to parallel proceedings.
The Workplace Relations Commission heard an equality complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998 brought by Viktorija Danilova against TikTok. Ms Danilova, an ad service specialist, alleged discrimination on grounds of family status and race during a collective redundancy process that eliminated 150 multilingual support roles. She claimed she was the only mother on maternity leave in her team to be made redundant and that her assignment to the Russian market was used to justify her dismissal despite her working on multiple markets. TikTok's counsel, Kiwanna Ennis BL, instructed by A&L Goodbody, argued the redundancies were driven by business rationale, specifically advancements in AI technology reducing the need for language skills. The employer stated that selection was based on the market for which employees were originally hired, a method agreed upon in collective consultations, and that Ms Danilova was treated the same as other staff in the Russian market. Ms Ennis noted that the redundancy process was paused during Ms Danilova's protective leave after she expressed unhappiness, and that the company is considering applying to have the complaints struck out. Adjudicator Pat Brady adjourned the matter to consider whether a prima facie case has been made out. If he concludes it has, the hearing will be rescheduled; if not, he will issue a decision disposing of the matter.
Michael Murphy, a solicitor at the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) office since 2002 and a prosecutor since 2017, has lodged a complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998 alleging discrimination because he is a recovering alcoholic. He claims the DPP denied him the opportunity to prepare a murder case and failed to transfer him out of the District Court section, which he describes as an "A&E environment." Murphy disclosed his alcoholism to his line manager after a seven‑week residential treatment in early 2019, stating he had been dealing with anxiety, depression and sleepless nights related to court work. He has sought a less court‑heavy post since February 2021 but has not succeeded. The DPP's chief prosecution solicitor, Helena Kiely, acknowledged awareness of his condition but cited pandemic staffing pressures and the need to staff a sexual offences unit as reasons for not granting a transfer.
Gemma Greene, 28, of Coolock, was sentenced to two years' imprisonment and a four‑year driving disqualification after a high‑speed pursuit on the M50 on 1 March 2021. She pleaded guilty to recklessly driving in the direction of a Garda, two counts of dangerous driving and had four prior convictions, including two for road traffic offences. During the chase, Greene drove a white Mercedes at speeds up to 200 km/h, ignored stingers and pursued by Garda helicopters, and live‑streamed the incident from her mobile phone. She was arrested at 6.50 pm, detained and charged. The court noted her prior warning of a threat to her life, her cocaine use on the day, and her statement that she had "nothing to live for." Judge Nolan imposed the custodial term, citing the high speeds, the hour‑long pursuit and the danger posed to the Garda who had to take evasive action.
Kenneth Philpott, 64, of River Forest, Leixlip, was stopped by Gardaí for driving in a bus lane and was found to be carrying over €200,000 worth of cannabis. He pleaded guilty to possession of the drugs on 10 April 2024 at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Garda Ronan Doolin reported that the vehicle was searched after the driver, who was nervous and cooperative, claimed there were packages in the car. Gardaí seized 7 kg of cannabis in taped packages, valued at €140,000, and later found an additional €80,000 worth of cannabis at Philpott's home. Philpott admitted that he had been pressured by parties who had taken advantage of his €2,400 gambling debt to traffic the drugs. He had no prior convictions. Judge Martin Nolan, taking into account Philpott's cooperation, good history, work record and the fear and coercion involved, set a headline sentence of six years but reduced it to three years imprisonment.
The High Court has ruled that Michelle Keane, an unsuccessful Independent Dáil candidate in Kerry, is out of time to challenge the November 2024 General Election result. Ms Keane, of Talbot Bridge, Knocknagoshel, claimed she witnessed ballots being torn from boxes at the Toureencahill polling station. She sought an order to release the marked register of electors and halt the destruction of election documents, naming the Clerk of the Dáil, the Irish Government, and Returning Officer Padraig Burke as respondents. Mr Justice Garrett Simons refused leave to present the election petition, noting that the 14-day limit under the Electoral Act 1992 had expired. The election was declared on November 30, 2024, but Ms Keane's application was not moved until March 7. The judge stated that Ms Keane was aware of her complaint on the night of the poll and that this was not a case of concealed fraud. He described her as "entirely unsuccessful" in the proceedings. Separately, last December, Ms Keane was jailed at Listowel Circuit Civil Court for refusing to comply with an injunction order prohibiting her from posting online about Listowel Garda Sergeant Melanie Walsh. She was released by Killarney Circuit Civil Court on December 13 after signing an undertaking to desist from such postings.
Michelle Keane, an unsuccessful Independent candidate in the Kerry General Election, appeared before the High Court to seek the setting aside of the election result. She alleged that she witnessed ballot papers being torn from boxes at a polling station on November 29, 2024, and requested access to the marked register of electors under the Electoral Act 1992. Mr Justice Garret Simons noted that any petition against an election should have been initiated within 28 days of polling day, which had passed. He reserved his judgment until Tuesday. Separately, regarding a distinct matter, Ms Keane was jailed at Listowel Circuit Civil Court on December 11 for refusing to comply with an injunction order prohibiting her from posting online about Listowel Garda Sergeant Melanie Walsh. This followed a July order from Ennis Circuit Civil Court requiring the removal of such posts. Although Ms Keane submitted an affidavit claiming she was not in breach, the court found otherwise. She was subsequently released by Killarney Circuit Civil Court on December 13 after signing an undertaking to desist from making further online statements about the sergeant.
Colm Bergin, aged 26 and a qualified dog trainer, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for two robberies in Artane on 17 November 2023. In the first incident, he approached a commuter around 8:30 am, demanded his mobile phone and threatened to have his Pit‑bull bite him, then stole €25 and left on a bicycle with the dog on a lead. In the second, he confronted another commuter at a bus stop, demanded all his belongings, and when the man refused, set his dog on him. The dog bit the victim's leg twice or three times, causing bleeding. Bergin also stole the victim's backpack, which contained a laptop and wallet, and used the victim's card to make purchases. The victim suffered lasting physical and psychological harm, reporting difficulty walking for six months, back pain, anxiety and nightmares.
A 50-year-old woman, November Phelan, was sentenced to six years imprisonment with the final year suspended for a period of three years, on the condition that she remain under the supervision of the probation services and engage with counselling and addiction services. The sentence was passed by Mr Justice Paul Burns at the Central Criminal Court following a validated procedural stage of sentence. Phelan had pleaded guilty to manslaughter when she was arraigned before the court. The court heard that Phelan had been in a relationship with the deceased, David Ennis, and that both had significant problems involving long-term substance abuse. Mr Justice Burns noted that Phelan had acted in self-defence in response to an anticipated attack from Ennis. The judge acknowledged Phelan's guilty plea, her expression of remorse, and her long-term struggle with drug addiction and depression. The matter was not adjourned and was finalised with the sentence being backdated to October 27, 2023, when Phelan went into custody.
Four men – Adam Baker (25), Clayton Lieghio (23), Glen Lieghio (28) and Jamie Boyd (25) – were sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for an affray that took place on 24 October 2021 at Priorswood Inn, Priorswood. The incident was discovered when Garda Alan Roche reviewed CCTV footage as part of a separate investigation. The court heard that a verbal disagreement escalated into a 60‑second brawl involving a large group, with each man throwing objects or striking others. All four pleaded guilty. Judge Martin Nolan imposed a 12‑month sentence on Clayton Lieghio, back‑dated to February 2024, an 18‑month suspended sentence on Jamie Boyd, a 10‑month sentence on Adam Baker, and an 18‑month suspended sentence on Glen Lieghio. The court noted each defendant's prior convictions, personal circumstances and mitigating factors presented by their counsel, but no victim impact statements were provided.
Patrick Harty, 51, was sentenced to five years in prison, with the final year suspended, for a seven‑month crime spree in which he stole about €20,000 worth of property from weddings and other social settings. He pleaded guilty to five counts, including four thefts and one unlawful use of a car, and was found to have committed the offences between 31 May 2023 and 1 January 2024 in various locations across Leinster, such as a hotel in Co Kildare, Brittas Bay in Co Wicklow and Dublin City Centre. The court heard that no property was recovered and that Harty's offences caused "great inconvenience" to his victims. He has a history of theft, burglary and traffic offences, and the judge noted his personal circumstances, including a brain injury and a background of neglect. Harty was directed to undergo one year of post‑release supervision by the Probation Services.
Gemma Greene, 27, of Bunratty Road, Coolock, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to endangerment for recklessly driving toward a Garda on the M50 on March 1 2021, forcing the officer to take evasive action. The incident, which was live‑streamed on social media, involved a car chase at junction 9 northbound. Prosecutor Maddie Grant said the State accepted the plea on the basis of recklessness. Defence counsel Gregory Murphy noted the client had not attracted Garda attention since and was experiencing personal difficulties at the time. Judge Martin Nolan set a sentencing date of March 19.
A 50-year-old woman, November Phelan, was remanded in custody until March 3, when she will be sentenced, following a sentence hearing at the Central Criminal Court. Phelan pleaded guilty to manslaughter when she was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court, admitting to the charge of manslaughter when she fatally stabbed her partner, David Ennis (36), in a Dublin apartment. The court heard that Phelan used excessive force in self-defence, claiming she was in 'total fear' and did not intend to kill him. The incident occurred in the early hours of November 8, 2022, at Claddagh Court in Ballyfermot. The court was informed that Phelan and Ennis had been in a relationship for two to three years, during which drugs were a significant factor. The deceased had a history of drug use and had suffered a fall from a balcony a few days before the incident. CCTV footage showed Ennis arriving at Claddagh Court at 11.30pm on November 7, and Phelan arriving around 1.20am on the morning of November 8. The court heard that Phelan had a history of 26 previous convictions, mostly for public order offences and non-appearance before court. The matter was adjourned and will be finalised on March 3, when the sentence will be determined.
Cathal Crotty, a former soldier aged 22, was sentenced by the Court of Appeal to three years' imprisonment, with the final 12 months suspended for one year, after a fully suspended three‑year sentence imposed by the Circuit Court was overturned. The appeal was brought by the Director of Public Prosecutions, who argued that the original sentence was too lenient. Crotty had beaten Natasha O'Brien, 25, unconscious on a public street after she asked him to stop shouting homophobic abuse. He repeatedly punched her, causing a fractured nose, and later posted a boastful Snapchat message. Crotty will pay €3,000 in compensation to Ms O'Brien. The court noted his early guilty plea, lack of prior convictions, good character and remorse, but also his loss of a Defence Forces post and lack of dependents. The sentence reflects the gravity of the offence and the need to deter similar attacks.
Cathal Crotty, a 20‑year‑old former Defence Forces soldier, was convicted of assault causing harm after he beat Natasha O'Brien unconscious on a Limerick street on 29 May 2022. The assault followed O'Brien's request that he stop shouting homophobic abuse, after which Crotty verbally abused her and then struck her. Crotty pleaded guilty in July 2023 at Limerick Circuit Court. Judge Tom O'Donnell imposed a wholly suspended three‑year sentence and ordered Crotty to pay €3,000 compensation. The Director of Public Prosecutions, Lily Buckley, has applied to the Court of Appeal to overturn the sentence, arguing it is unduly lenient and that a custodial term is needed to deter similar crimes. Crotty's lawyers contend the judge exercised mercy appropriately, citing his good service record, lack of prior convictions, and potential job loss. The Court of Appeal will decide whether to uphold or modify the sentence.
Cathal Crotty, a 22‑year‑old former soldier from Parkroe Heights, Ardnacrusha, was given a three‑year suspended sentence by Limerick Circuit Criminal Court in June for an unprovoked attack on Natasha O'Brien on O'Connell Street in May 2022. Crotty, who was serving in the Defence Forces at the time, grabbed O'Brien by the hair, punched her to the ground, and continued to hold her hair while striking her face until she lost consciousness. O'Brien suffered a broken nose, bruising, nightmares and panic attacks. After the assault Crotty boasted on Snapchat that he had "two to put her down, two to put her out." He was discharged from the army in July. The Director of Public Prosecution has appealed the suspended sentence on the grounds of undue leniency. The appeal will be heard on 23 January, with counsel for Crotty applying for a second counsel, a request granted by Judge John Edwards. Cathal Crotty pleaded guilty.
A 49‑year‑old woman from Aylward Green, Finglas, Dublin 11, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the death of David Ennis, 36, who was found dead in a Dublin apartment on 8 November 2022. The case was originally charged as murder at Claddagh Court, Ballyfermot, but the woman admitted manslaughter at her arraignment before the Central Criminal Court. Mr Justice Paul McDermott has scheduled sentencing for 4 February.
Paul Murphy, a father-of-two who survived a fatal crane incident at Thomond Bridge in Limerick in 2015, reached an undisclosed settlement with multiple parties, including Palfinger Ireland Ltd and Limerick City and County Council, the High Court heard. Counsel for Murphy stated that liability was conceded by the named defendants, allowing the case to proceed solely for the assessment of damages before the settlement was finalized. The incident claimed the lives of Murphy's co-workers, Bryan Whelan and TJ O'Herlihy, who drowned after the crane fell into the River Shannon. Murphy, who suffered PTSD and physical injuries, was rescued by lifeboat. In related proceedings, Palfinger Ireland Ltd was fined €25,000 at Limerick Circuit Court on October 7, 2022, after pleading guilty to breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act. Additionally, Nationwide Crane Hire Ltd pleaded guilty to similar breaches and was fined €200,000. The prosecutions, brought by the Health and Safety Authority, cited a failed safety mechanism and a missing chapter in the crane manual supplied by Palfinger. The High Court judge acknowledged the trauma Murphy endured, noting he had to relive parts of the tragedy during the proceedings.
In a Court of Appeal hearing on 9 October 2024, Mr Justice John Edwards dismissed the appeal of 31‑year‑old Richard Walsh, a boxer from Congress Villas, Dungarvan, who had been convicted of assault causing harm for striking a woman with an iron bar at Kilrush Park on 30 November 2020. The appeal centred on two grounds: that the mobile‑phone footage used at trial had been edited, and that the trial judge had misdirected the jury on self‑defence. Mr Justice Edwards found the footage to be authentic, not hearsay, and that no evidence suggested manipulation. He also held that the judge's instructions on self‑defence were adequate and that the jury's decision was sound. Consequently, the appeal was rejected, leaving the original conviction and sentence of two and a half years, with the final 12 months suspended, in place. The court's judgment was delivered in the Court of Appeal, Waterford.