Garda Joseph Joyce, who was ordered back on the beat during the winter 2022 Covid-19 surge despite having severe asthma, was found to have been discriminated against but was too late to recover compensation. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) dismissed his equality complaint against the Commissioner of An Garda Siochána because too much time had passed between the withdrawal of his work-from-home arrangement and the filing of the complaint. Joyce, who had been granted special leave due to his medical condition, was ordered back to work in person despite local Garda management's disregard for his condition. The WRC ruled that the force had discriminated against him but had no jurisdiction to award compensation as the complaint was filed more than six months after the events.
A Brazilian brothel-keeper, Ilamar Rodrigues Ribeiro, has had his appeal to reduce his prison sentence dismissed by the court. Ribeiro, who operated a brothel network across rural Ireland and laundered €800,000, was arrested at Dublin Airport in 2023 with child abuse material on his phone. He pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including brothel-keeping, money laundering, and possession of child pornography. The child abuse material, which included images and videos of pre-pubescent children, was described as the most serious category. Judge Patricia Ryan imposed a 10-and-a-half-year sentence in 2025, which included consecutive terms. Ribeiro's lawyers argued that the court should have suspended the sentence for the child abuse material due to his lack of prior convictions. However, Mr Justice Paul Burns ruled that the child pornography charge was of a different nature and required a separate sentence. He stated that the court could not ignore the severity of the offence. The investigation into Ribeiro began after two women came forward with trafficking allegations, leading to the identification of multiple properties used as brothels across Ireland.
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.
The High Court has quashed the assault conviction of Kevin Taylor, a former Garda from Longford, following a judicial review appeal. Taylor was originally convicted in Strokestown District Court in August 2021 of assaulting security staff member Ian Gordon during the execution of a possession order at Falsk, Strokestown, Co Roscommon, on December 11, 2018. The initial conviction resulted in a €200 fine. In March 2024, Taylor appealed to the Circuit Court, where he received a two-month custodial sentence. He subsequently sought a judicial review against the Director of Public Prosecutions, arguing that the prosecution failed to specify the precise factual basis of the alleged assault, violating fair procedure principles. Mr Justice Garrett Simons accepted that CCTV footage did not show Taylor grabbing Gordon's genitals, as alleged, though it did show him laying hands on him. The High Court judge found that the Circuit Court judge had undermined the effectiveness of cross-examination by taking over questioning, depriving Taylor of a fair opportunity to test the complainant's account. Furthermore, the trial judge failed to assess the reasonableness of the force used based on Taylor's asserted belief that he was protecting a disabled man. Mr Justice Simons quashed the conviction and determined it was not in the public interest to remit the matter, noting that Taylor had already served a two-month sentence for contempt in the same proceedings.
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 have been jailed for a combined nine years following the discovery of cannabis grow houses in Co Galway. Aloyzas Bukantus, 45, of Church Street, Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, pleaded guilty at Galway Circuit Criminal Court to possession of drugs for sale or supply and money laundering. Tomas Dumbliavskas, 31, from Lithuania, pleaded guilty to cultivation of cannabis. The offences occurred on 13 March 2024 at properties in Skehana South near Ballinasloe and Tallavnamraher, Creggs. Gardaí executed simultaneous search warrants, recovering cannabis plants and herb with a combined estimated value of €415,000. Dumbliavskas was discovered hiding in a partition wall; Bukantus was present at the other premises. Judge Eoin Garavan sentenced Dumbliavskas to four years, suspending the final twelve months on condition he leave the jurisdiction within two weeks of release. Bukantus received seven years, with the final year suspended for two years, and was placed under probation supervision for one year post-release.
Patrick Rea has received a concurrent 12-year sentence for raping and indecently assaulting his young cousin in Longford Town between 1986 and 1989. The Central Criminal Court reduced the headline term to account for Rea's age when the offending occurred. He remains in custody serving a life sentence and was made subject to lifelong post-release supervision and restrictions on contact with the victim and children.
A man has been jailed for two years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following an assault on an Irish Rail inspector aboard a Dublin to Sligo train at Connolly Station. Gerry Nevin (32), of Mostrim Road, Ballymahon, Co. Longford, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm on 21 September 2024. The incident occurred after the inspector requested Nevin remove alcohol from the train. Evidence presented to the court showed Nevin engaged in a verbal dispute with the inspector, then assaulted him by pushing him against a door, punching him repeatedly and placing him in a headlock. The inspector sustained a fractured lip, facial cuts and broken glasses, and required hospital treatment. In a victim impact statement, the injured party described ongoing psychological effects and anxiety about returning to work. Judge Martina Baxter imposed a headline sentence of three and a half years, reducing it to two and a half years to reflect mitigating factors including Nevin's early guilty plea. The final six months were suspended on condition he comply with probation supervision and undertake offence-related courses.
Shane Kelly, 36, of no fixed abode in Edgeworthstown, Co Longford, was sentenced at the Central Criminal Court for offences committed in the early hours of February 25, 2025. Kelly pleaded guilty to two counts of attempted rape, one count of oral rape, one count of anal rape, and one count of burglary at the home of Anne Gallagher, a 70-year-old neighbour. Ms Justice Melanie Greally described the attack as pre-meditated, noting Kelly was aware of Gallagher's vulnerability, including her chronic health issues and reliance on mobility aids. The judge stated the harm caused was "life-altering" and that Kelly's culpability was of a "particularly extreme level." Although the Director of Public Prosecution assessed the case in the 10 to 15-year category, Ms Justice Greally set a headline sentence of 18 years. Taking mitigating factors into account, she reduced this to 14 years and six months. The final 18 months of the sentence were suspended on conditions. A Probation Service report indicated Kelly is at medium risk of reoffending and requires intervention for sexual preoccupation, impulsivity, and drug abuse. Gallagher, who waived her anonymity, stated she chose to forgive Kelly to heal, while the court noted the sentence must be punitive given the egregious violation of her home and the use of violence, including manual strangulation.
A garda with severe asthma has brought complaints of disability discrimination, harassment and victimisation before the Workplace Relations Commission, alleging he was ordered to return to frontline duties at Longford Garda Station during a winter Covid-19 surge in January 2022, contrary to medical advice to cocoon. The garda, who has served since 2000, claims he was directed to report for foot patrol on 1 January 2022 despite health vulnerabilities and poor workplace safety measures. State counsel argued the garda was "grossly exaggerating" safety requirements and that appropriate protective measures were in place. The State also contends there are jurisdictional issues with the commission hearing the claims. The garda's legal representatives countered that management showed a dismissive attitude towards disability accommodation. The tribunal heard closing arguments on the ninth day of hearings in the equality case today.
The High Court has ruled that the fast-tracked process used to establish an International Protection Accommodation Service centre in Athlone was flawed, but a four-month stay has been placed on the final order. The court has ordered that, following the stay, the site will be considered 'unauthorised development'. Aoife Carroll SC, representing the State, informed Ms Justice Emily Farrell that the proposed centre, which was intended to house up to 1,000 asylum seekers, is currently vacant and that a stay is being sought to allow time for remedial legislation. The legal challenge was brought by Westmeath Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan and four other local representatives, who argued that the minister failed to adequately screen the project for environmental impacts and lacked the necessary expertise to conduct such assessments in an expedited manner. The State conceded the legal challenge and requested a stay on the order quashing the use of the statutory instrument used to fast-track the facility. Ms Justice Farrell awarded costs to Cllr Hogan's side up until July 25 last. A bill is expected to be presented to cabinet in the coming weeks to address the error in the statutory instrument. The matter remains under consideration, with the stay in place for four months.
A garda with severe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder has lodged complaints of disability discrimination, harassment and victimisation against the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána and the Minister for Justice at the Workplace Relations Commission. Garda Joseph Joyce, stationed in Longford, alleges he was ordered to return to frontline duty on 1 January 2022 contrary to medical advice during a Covid-19 surge, despite being granted special leave since April 2020 on grounds of severe health risk. He claims management ignored his general practitioner's guidance and assurances from a superintendent that he would not engage with the public, yet he was sent on foot patrol in Longford Town. Mr Joyce contends he encountered poor station hygiene, lack of sanitiser, equipment failures and subsequent claims he had breached protocols, causing work-related stress. The State disputes these allegations and argues An Garda Síochána was entitled to maintain operational capacity and that work-from-home arrangements were not sustainable. The commission has adjourned proceedings pending further evidence.
Raymond Nevin, a salesman from the Travelling Community, secured €7,500 in compensation from the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) for workplace discrimination at CPF (Profiles) Ltd in Longford. Adjudicator Anne McElduff found that the company maintained a "culture and tolerance" of derogatory terminology towards Travellers. Mr Nevin alleged that during his two-and-a-half-week employment in June 2024, he overheard the managing director use terms such as "pikeys" and "tinkers" in phone calls and make remarks about a Traveller customer. The MD, who was not named in the decision, denied discrimination but admitted he "may" have used the word "pikey" on one occasion, while stating he did not recall the other alleged remarks. The adjudicator also found that the employer had "probed" Mr Nevin's background during his May 2024 interview by asking if he was related to the "Taxi Nevins," a local settled family, to determine his Traveller status. While the MD claimed these questions were to assess worker reliability, the WRC determined his community membership was a consideration in the hiring process. The award, equivalent to nearly 19 weeks' wages, was made under the Employment Equality Act 1998. A separate complaint under the National Minimum Wage Act 2000 was dismissed because Mr Nevin had not sought a statement of his hourly earnings as required by legislation.
A 46-year-old man has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment following a deliberate fire at a house in Shankill, Dublin in December 2024. Jason Flynn of Longford House, Spencer Dock, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty to arson at the address on 5 December 2024 and possession of cannabis for sale or supply on 23 December 2024. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Flynn travelled over 19 kilometres to set fire to a car and Christmas wreath at the family home in the early hours, knowing a family of five was inside. A neighbour's alert enabled their escape. The court was told this was the second fire Flynn had caused at the property; he had previously set a fire there in 2001 after being evicted from the adjacent house, which he then occupied. Judge Martin Nolan noted Flynn acted with malice and forethought, stating that had the family not been alerted, fire could have entered the home with potentially fatal consequences. Flynn has 19 previous convictions including arson and assault causing serious harm.
A High Court judge has deferred judgment on the State's application to overturn a December order quashing a statutory instrument used to fast-track emergency accommodation development at Lissywollen in Athlone, County Westmeath. Ms Justice Emily Farrell said she would await draft legislation from the Oireachtas aimed at remedying a procedural breach concerning environmental assessments. The judge acknowledged the vulnerability of residents at the facility and stated the Minister has an obligation to provide alternative accommodation or demonstrate efforts to do so. She imposed restrictions on the centre, permitting only essential maintenance and prohibiting new admissions beyond those accommodated in February. The State submitted that closure risks homelessness among asylum seekers currently residing there. The judicial review was brought by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan, who successfully argued the expedited development process was unlawful. The matter was adjourned to 21 July, with the judge directing that resident numbers be substantially reduced by that date.
In a High Court hearing, the State applied for a stay on a December order that quashed the use of a statutory instrument to fast-track the development of a refugee facility at Lissywollen, Athlone. The applicant, Independent Ireland Westmeath Councillor Paul Hogan, had previously secured a finding that the expedited development was unlawful due to inadequate environmental screening and a lack of ministerial expertise. Hogan alleged the process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures. The State's counsel, Aoife Carroll SC, argued that closing the facility posed a serious risk to the dignity and safety of asylum seekers, noting that 137 residents remained. She described the conceded breach as procedural rather than substantial and stated that corrective legislation was imminent. Counsel for Hogan, Oisín Collins SC, countered that the State should use existing planning laws and enforcement notices rather than seeking a stay. Justice Emily Farrell heard the arguments and adjourned the matter, indicating she would deliver her judgment on the stay application on Wednesday.
James Gilleran, 70, was sentenced to two years' imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to five counts of indecent assault committed between 1983 and 1987. The court heard that Gilleran, a former scout leader, abused three boys aged 11 to 13 while in a position of trust. The offences were brought to light after one survivor recognised Gilleran on the Late Late Show in 2021, prompting formal complaints to the Garda. Judge Orla Crowe described the conduct as a gross violation of the children's bodily integrity and innocence, noting predatory behaviour including the exposure of victims to alcohol and pornography. Although Gilleran had a previous conviction for sexual assault in 1997, the judge considered mitigating factors, including his early guilty plea, good work history, and health issues, before imposing the two-year custodial sentence. The three injured parties waived their anonymity and provided impact statements detailing the lifelong psychological effects of the abuse. Gilleran's defence counsel highlighted his 30 years of offending-free life and his desire to atone. The matter was finalised with the imposition of the sentence.
The Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by a serving member of An Garda Síochána and his partner against a High Court order requiring them to vacate a property in Co Cavan. The couple had occupied the house at Lock Eala, Loch Gowna since 2012 under an arrangement with the previous landlord. However, businesswoman Sylvia Fox purchased the property at auction in March 2024 following the developer's insolvency. Ms Fox obtained a High Court injunction in February 2025 after claiming she had been intimidated when seeking vacant possession. The defendants argued their lease agreement with the former owner should remain valid, contesting Ms Fox's registered ownership at that time. Mr Justice Donald Binchy dismissed the appeal, finding Ms Fox now held clear title to the property as the registered owner. A four-week stay on the order was granted. The defendants' legal representatives indicated an intention to seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court.
A 54-year-old Brazilian man has been sentenced to nine years imprisonment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court following his conviction on multiple charges related to operating a brothel network across rural Ireland. Ilamar Rodrigues Ribeiro pleaded guilty to 19 sample counts, including brothel-keeping, using false instruments, and possession of proceeds of crime totalling €788,982 across multiple bank accounts. He also admitted possessing child sexual abuse material on his mobile phone when arrested at Dublin Airport in November 2023. The investigation, led by the Garda Human Trafficking and Co-ordination Unit, identified ten rental properties used as brothels in locations including Longford town, Ballyconnell, Ballymahon, Carrick-on-Shannon, and Ballaghadereen. Judge Patricia Ryan noted the offences involved elaborate planning and premeditation. She imposed a global sentence of ten and a half years, suspending the final eighteen months on strict conditions, with the term backdated to his arrest date.
A Brazilian man has pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to operating a network of brothels across rural Ireland using falsified documents and landlord deception. Ilamar Rodrigues Ribeiro, aged 54, rented ten properties under a false Italian identity, with two located in Roscommon Town and others in Longford, Cavan, Leitrim, Carlow, Wexford and Kildare between 2018 and 2023. When arrested at Dublin Airport in November 2023, gardaí from the Human Trafficking and Co-ordination Unit recovered approximately €788,000 in proceeds of crime across multiple bank accounts. He also pleaded guilty to possessing child sexual abuse material on his phone comprising nine images and sixteen videos. Ribeiro entered guilty pleas to nineteen sample counts including fraud, inducing landlords to rent properties under false pretences, and possession of criminal proceeds. The investigation began following trafficking allegations from two women who identified properties being misused as brothels. Ribeiro has remained in custody since his arrest. Sentencing proceedings are scheduled for 21 March.
A 47-year-old man has been jailed for two and a half years by the Central Criminal Court after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting a vulnerable woman at a property in Longford on 11 February 2021. The court heard that the woman was intoxicated when the accused digitally penetrated her without consent while she slept. She discovered the assault upon waking and immediately left the room. The woman subsequently attended a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit and provided a victim impact statement describing profound trauma, including feelings of shame, social withdrawal, and ongoing distress. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a headline sentence of five years, reducing it to four years to account for the guilty plea and the accused's work history. The final 18 months were suspended for 18 months on condition of engagement with the Probation Service and completion of victim-focused work. A contact ban with the victim was also imposed.
Cllr Paul Hogan, Cllr Aengus O'Rourke, and Cllr John Dolan welcomed a High Court adjournment in their challenge to a plan to house approximately 1,000 male asylum seekers in tented accommodation in Athlone. The applicants alleged that the ministerial process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures, claiming deficiencies in environmental screening, wastewater assessment, and traffic impact analysis. At the hearing, counsel for Cllr Hogan stated that the State had conceded the case, resulting in the development being classified as unauthorised. However, the applicants maintained that substantive environmental and planning issues remained unaddressed. Mr Justice Richard Humphreys adjourned the matter to January 27 to allow for further detailed consideration of these wider grounds. The State confirmed that works on the Lissywollen site would cease on December 20, though the site would remain in operation pending a final court determination. The councillors, including Mayor Frankie Keena, stated that the adjournment provides an opportunity to have their broader concerns heard in full by the High Court.
The Government has conceded a High Court challenge brought by Cllr Paul Hogan against a plan to house approximately 1,000 male asylum seekers in Athlone. At the hearing, Oisin SC, representing Mr. Hogan, informed Mr Justice Richard Humphreys that the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability and Youth conceded the case, stating the development would be classified as unauthorised. Ms Aoife Carroll SC, for the State, indicated the matter could be put in for mention on Thursday, pending instructions from the Minister. Mr. Hogan, who secured 4.8 per cent of first preference votes in the recent General Election, alleged the ministerial process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures. The challenge was supported by Athlone-based representatives, including TD Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, councillors Frankie Keena and Aengus O'Rourke of Fianna Fáil, and John Dolan of Fine Gael. Mr. Hogan sought to pause or quash the statutory instrument that confirmed the project did not require An Bord Pleanála approval and that specific EU environmental assessments were unnecessary. He claimed the Minister failed to adequately screen for environmental impacts, citing deficiencies in wastewater and traffic assessments, and argued the plan would cause significant traffic hazards and health and safety issues. He further alleged a lack of prior consultation with local councillors and that the development would be prejudicial to public health. Minister for Integration Roderick O'Gorman had contested the case. The matter was adjourned for mention on Thursday.
A 23-year-old man from Longford has been sentenced to three years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court following his conviction for the rape and sexual assault of his younger cousins. The defendant was found guilty of orally raping his cousin when she was aged eight or nine, and of sexually assaulting her younger sister when she was between seven and eight years old. The offences occurred between 2016 and 2021, when the defendant was between 14 and 18 years of age. The first victim, now 16, detailed the profound psychological impact of the abuse, including night terrors and anxiety. The second victim, now 12, said she initially remained silent about the assault before coming forward after her sister disclosed her own experience. In sentencing, Mr Justice Paul Burns acknowledged the defendant's age at the time of the offences and reduced the headline sentence accordingly. The final 12 months of the three-year sentence on the rape charge are suspended, subject to probation supervision for three years following release.
A 52-year-old man from Longford has been sentenced to nine years imprisonment following his conviction on 52 counts of sexual assault at the Central Criminal Court. The offences occurred between 2004 and 2006, when the victim was aged between 10 and 12 years old. The man, who was known to the victim's family and regularly babysat her, engaged in a pattern of sexual assaults that included inappropriate touching and exposure to pornographic material. During sentencing, Mr Justice David Keane identified aggravating factors including the breach of trust inherent in the babysitting relationship, the vulnerable age of the victim, and the fact that the abuse occurred within her home. The victim provided an impact statement describing the profound and lasting effects of the offences, stating that the trial process itself had been deeply traumatic. The judge noted the man has not accepted the jury's verdict and has demonstrated no remorse. A period of two-year post-release supervision has been imposed, with no portion of the sentence suspended.
Three business founders from Longford have had their discrimination claim against Enterprise Ireland dismissed by the Workplace Relations Commission for a second time. Mark Keenan, Michael O'Reilly and Robert Yorke, who own the sharing economy platform LendRB Ltd, alleged they were told during a 2022 funding interview that they "didn't have enough diversity". The complainants sought to proceed on the basis that discrimination occurred against them as individuals rather than the corporate entity. However, adjudicating officer Niamh O'Carroll found the new complaint was identical to a previous claim already rejected in 2023 on statutory grounds. Ms O'Carroll noted the matter had been ruled statute-barred and that a corporate entity cannot refer an equality claim under legislation. The founders indicated their intention to pursue the matter to the Labour Court.
The Court of Appeal has quashed the original sentence of Edward 'Blondie' Stokes, increasing his prison term by four years. Stokes, 33, of Ferriskill, Granard, Co Longford, had previously pleaded not guilty to all counts but was found guilty by a unanimous jury after a nine-day trial. In January last year, Judge Kenneth Connolly sentenced him to three years for violent disorder, with the final six months suspended for 12 months. He also received concurrent sentences of two years and three months for endangerment and 18 months for the production of an article. The State successfully appealed on grounds of undue leniency. The Court of Appeal, led by Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, determined that the original headline sentence was incorrect given the aggravating factors, including the use of a shillelagh and the premeditated nature of the attack. The court set an appropriate headline sentence of eight years for violent disorder. After accounting for modest mitigation, Stokes was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment, with the final six months suspended. He must serve six-and-a-half years in jail. The other concurrent sentences remain as originally imposed.
Three senior officials in the Irish Prison Service have failed in equality claims at the Workplace Relations Commission, alleging they faced age discrimination through unequal pay. The claimants—operations director Don Culliton, ICT and governance director Donna Creaven, and former acting director of HR Trevor Jordan—each sought salary increases of between €32,000 and €36,000 to match the €142,892 pay of former director of care and rehabilitation Fergal Black. Ms Creaven also claimed gender discrimination. The Prison Service maintained that Mr Black's higher salary reflected "red-circling"—retention of original contractual terms—dating from his 1993 appointment and preserved during the agency's 2007 decentralisation to Longford, when medical qualifications ceased to be mandatory. Adjudicator Breiffni O'Neill accepted the respondent's historical account and found the pay disparity objectively justified, rejecting all three complaints.
Two men from Longford have failed in their conviction appeals at the Court of Appeal following their trial for rape and sexual assault during the Galway Races in August 2017. Karl Reilly of Carrickboy and Patrick McLoughlin of Moydow were convicted and sentenced to seven and five years' imprisonment respectively, with 18 months suspended in each case. The appellants, who had pleaded not guilty, argued that an erroneous time-stamp on phone evidence discovered during trial prejudiced their defence preparation and that their trials should have been separated. Presiding judge Mr Justice George Birmingham dismissed both grounds of appeal. The court found that the phone timing discrepancy, whilst unfortunate, did not cause irreparable damage to the trial and could have been addressed through further cross-examination or closing speeches. On the severance issue, the judge noted that the differences between the men's accounts to gardaí were minor and that joint trials routinely proceed where potential defence difficulties are far greater. Both conviction appeals were dismissed in their entirety.
A nurse has lodged complaints with the Workplace Relations Commission alleging he was dismissed from his position after raising concerns about patient care at a residential centre in Co Westmeath. Luke Woods worked as an agency employee at the Rahugh Residence in Tyrellspass between September 2020 and April 2021, and has brought claims under the Protection of Employees (Temporary Agency Work) Act 2012 and the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977. The HSE contests the dismissal claim, arguing Mr Woods was an agency worker and therefore not subject to its dismissal procedures. At a hearing, the HSE's HR officer stated Mr Woods remained employed and had averaged 147 hours monthly since starting. Mr Woods contended he was removed from the roster without explanation following a meeting on 13 April 2021 where he had raised concerns about missing documents. Adjudicator Janet Hughes directed the HSE to provide detailed evidence regarding the complaint investigation and the circumstances surrounding the April meeting. The hearing has been adjourned pending further submissions from the Health Service Executive.
Three founders of a Longford-based start-up have brought discrimination complaints against Enterprise Ireland at the Workplace Relations Commission, alleging they were told by a funding panel representative that their venture "didn't have enough diversity" when seeking backing under the Competitive Start Fund. Mark Keenan, Michael O'Reilly and Robert Yorke, owners of sharing economy platform LendRB Ltd, are pursuing claims under the Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000. At a preliminary hearing, Enterprise Ireland contested jurisdiction, arguing the matter had been previously ruled upon and that no employment relationship existed between the parties. The company also contended that only one founder's name appeared on the funding application form. The complainants maintained they experienced discrimination as individuals and that their relationship with Enterprise Ireland extended beyond a simple funding application. The case has a history before the tribunal, with an earlier complaint concerning the rejection of the funding application in May 2022.
A 39-year-old woman from Granard, County Longford, has been sentenced to twelve months in prison following an assault on a prison officer at the Dochas Centre in Mountjoy Prison on 29 September 2021. Stephanie Martin pleaded guilty to one count of assault causing harm at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The court heard that Martin grabbed food aggressively from the officer, placed her in a headlock, and pulled her hair, causing significant injury. The officer required hospital treatment and subsequently took a year off work, reporting ongoing anxiety and trauma. Judge Orla Crowe noted the seriousness of assaulting an officer in the course of duty and Martin's twenty-two previous convictions. However, the judge considered mitigating factors including Martin's early guilty plea, apology, and remorse. Martin has not come to garda attention since the incident. The headline sentence was set at eighteen months before reduction to twelve months.
Two men from County Longford have appealed their convictions for rape and sexual assault at the Court of Appeal following issues with phone evidence presented at their trial. Karl Reilly of Aghara, Carrickboy was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment with eighteen months suspended for rape; Patrick McLoughlin received five years' imprisonment with eighteen months suspended for sexual assault. Both men had pleaded not guilty to charges relating to an incident in August 2017 at Galway. Their legal representatives argued that an erroneous timestamp on mobile phone records, discovered only after defence cross-examination was completed, prejudiced trial preparation and rendered proceedings unsatisfactory. They also contended that the trial should have been separated, given inconsistencies between the men's accounts to gardaí. The State's counsel submitted that the timing discrepancies were minor and did not alter the intervals between calls or the approximate timeline of events. Justice Patrick McCarthy reserved judgment on the appeals.
A man aged 54 from Erry, Clara, County Offaly, has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment following his conviction on charges of sexually abusing a teenage boy over an extended period in the 1990s. Patrick Bardon was convicted by jury at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Longford in June on 11 counts of oral rape committed between October 1992 and March 1994 at his then home in Ferbane, County Offaly. The court heard that Bardon, a former teacher, befriended the boy at a local pitch and putt club before the abuse occurred. Mr Justice David Keane imposed a headline sentence of 12 years, reduced to ten years with the final two years suspended, subject to strict conditions including engagement with the Probation Service and completion of a sexual offender treatment programme. The survivor, now 46, waived anonymity and delivered an impact statement to the court, describing the profound effect the abuse had on his life and his relief at securing justice.
The trial of Patrick Sweeney, Martin O'Toole, Paul Beirne, and David Lawlor continues before Judge Martina Baxter and a jury at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. The four men, who have all pleaded not guilty, face the same 17 charges each. They are accused of false imprisonment and assault causing harm to four security guards, including Mark Rissen, at a repossessed farm in Falsk, Strokestown, on December 16, 2018. The State alleges the group also committed aggravated burglary, four counts of arson, criminal damage, violent disorder, robbery, and causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Mr. Rissen testified that he was pushed to the ground, struck, and had his hands tied with cable ties during the attack. He reported bleeding from a leg gash and smoke inhalation, requiring treatment at Mullingar Hospital. The court heard that the accused allegedly arrived armed with various weapons, smashed the property, and set vehicles on fire. The trial is currently at the evidence stage, with the prosecution presenting witness accounts of the alleged assault and property damage.
A human trafficking trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has been discharged after ten days due to unforeseen circumstances. The case against Natalia Nogueira Da Silva of Drumlish, County Longford, and Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis of Roscommon is expected to recommence before a new jury later this month. Judge Patricia Ryan discharged the existing jury, citing the impossibility of proceeding under current circumstances. Da Silva has admitted 35 charges including organising prostitution, facilitating illegal entry, and money laundering offences alleged between 2015 and 2020. She has denied a single count of human trafficking. Vailones Fidelis has denied all 18 charges against her, including two counts of human trafficking, one count of organising prostitution, and money laundering charges covering the same period. The original trial had been scheduled for six weeks. The matter was adjourned to Friday for assignment of a new trial date.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, a Brazilian woman gave evidence that she was required to engage in sexual relations with one of the accused and her husband on multiple occasions. Testifying via video-link with an interpreter, the complainant described being selected as a "girlfriend" for weekends at properties in Roscommon and various hotels. She stated she was not willing to participate in these activities. The prosecution alleges that Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, of Racecourse Road, Roscommon, and Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, of Drumlish, County Longford, trafficked two vulnerable Brazilian women for sexual exploitation. The court heard the complainant was encouraged to consume alcohol and drugs, and was instructed to continue working during menstruation. She was subsequently evicted from an apartment near Kildare Village after requesting repairs. Ms Vailones Fidelis, aged 46, has denied all 18 charges including human trafficking and money laundering offences dating between 2015 and 2020. Ms Da Silva, aged 32, has admitted 35 charges but denies one count of human trafficking. The trial continues before Ms Justice Patricia Ryan.
A Brazilian woman has testified at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that she expected merely to survive each day while allegedly trafficked in Ireland for sexual exploitation. Giving evidence via video-link with interpreter support, the woman described arriving in 2018 after being promised massage work, but was moved weekly between locations including Ballymahon, County Longford. She stated she was required to engage in sexual services, serving seven to nine clients daily at €100 to €150 each, while having limited English and facing aggressive clients. The witness detailed a system whereby she paid weekly fees for website listing, accommodation ranging from €500 to €900, transport, and transferred half her earnings to an account controlled by accused parties. She recalled meeting other women at a Christmas gathering organised by one of the accused. Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, of Drumlish, County Longford, has pleaded guilty to organising prostitution and money laundering but denies one human trafficking charge. Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, of Roscommon, denies all eighteen charges including two human trafficking counts.
A human trafficking trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has been adjourned following the unavailability of a complainant. The witness, who has been giving evidence via video link with the aid of an interpreter, was scheduled to face cross-examination but became unable to attend. Judge Patricia Ryan informed the jury that the witness may remain unavailable for more than a week and discharged the jury for the day, with proceedings expected to resume the following afternoon. The State alleges that Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, aged 32, of Cairn Hill View, Drumlish, County Longford, and Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, aged 46, of Castle Manor, Racecourse Road, Roscommon, trafficked two vulnerable Brazilian women for exploitation between 2015 and 2020. Ms Vailones Fidelis has denied eighteen charges, including human trafficking and money laundering offences. Ms Da Silva has admitted thirty-five charges but denies one count of human trafficking in 2019.
At Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, a defence barrister has proposed that a Brazilian woman alleging she was trafficked to work as a prostitute was in fact already a sex worker who chose to come to Ireland for that purpose. The complainant, giving evidence via video link with an interpreter, has previously stated she worked as a hairdresser in Brazil. During cross-examination on the second day, the defence counsel for Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis put multiple propositions to the woman, including that she was free to leave accommodation, controlled her own clients, and that her work profile was voluntarily managed. The defence also presented social media evidence from the woman's Instagram and Tinder accounts showing photographs from her time in Ireland. The complainant maintained she had no support network and was instructed to obey orders, with hopes of completing three months before being released. Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, of Drumlish, County Longford, has admitted charges including organising prostitution and money laundering but denied one human trafficking count. Vailones Fidelis pleaded not guilty. Da Silva pleaded not guilty.
A woman giving evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has described coming to Ireland with hopes of improving her circumstances and saving money to start a business. The witness, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, told the jury she arrived under what she characterised as an employment arrangement with expectations of financial gain. The woman was testifying in the trial of Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, of Drumlish, County Longford, and Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, of Roscommon, who are accused of human trafficking. The State alleges both defendants trafficked two vulnerable Brazilian women for exploitation. During cross-examination, the witness clarified aspects of her initial complaint to gardaí and addressed questions regarding her immigration status and residency application. Ms Da Silva has pleaded guilty to organising prostitution and money laundering offences, and has admitted facilitating illegal entry to the State. She maintains her not-guilty plea to human trafficking. Ms Vailones Fidelis has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including human trafficking, organising prostitution, and money laundering. The trial continues before Judge Patricia Ryan and a jury.
A woman giving evidence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has described being moved between rural towns weekly while allegedly trafficked for sexual exploitation. The complainant, who cannot be named, told the trial she was relocated from locations including Portarlington, Enniscorthy and Tralee, and kept a knife for protection following violent incidents with clients. She said she received instructions via phone and messaging apps from two women regarding services to be provided and payment collection, with no option to refuse work or relocation. Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, aged 32, of Drumlish, County Longford, has pleaded not guilty to human trafficking between March and May 2019, but guilty to organising prostitution, facilitating illegal entry to the State, and money laundering charges. Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, aged 46, of Roscommon, denies all eighteen counts against her, including two counts of human trafficking and fourteen counts of money laundering. The prosecution alleges both defendants exploited vulnerable Brazilian women through debt bondage. The trial continues at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
Two women have gone on trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on charges relating to the alleged trafficking of Brazilian nationals for sexual exploitation across rural Irish towns. Natalia Nogueira Da Silva, aged 32, of Drumlish, Co Longford, has pleaded not guilty to human trafficking but guilty to organising prostitution, facilitating illegal entry, and money laundering offences. Her co-accused, Ivanilce Vailones Fidelis, aged 46, of Roscommon, has pleaded not guilty to all charges against her, including two counts of human trafficking, organising prostitution, and money laundering. The prosecution alleges the two women trafficked vulnerable women between December 2018 and May 2019, moving them between towns including Portarlington, Thurles, and Tralee for sexual work. The State contends the women were controlled through debt bondage and threats. The trial, before Judge Patricia Ryan and a jury, is expected to last six weeks.
A Longford accountant pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to filing false tax returns for five clients between July 2016 and August 2019. Robert Browne, aged 53, of Treanlawn, Killoe, admitted using his former employer's Audit Registration Number without permission to conceal late filings. The court heard that Browne had taken on excessive work after establishing his own practice and, rather than disclose delays, unlawfully used the ARN to mask non-compliance. The deception caused financial harm to the affected companies, including credit downgrades and strikeouts, and necessitated re-auditing. Judge Pauline Codd noted the serious breach of trust involved, though acknowledged no personal financial gain and Browne's genuine remorse. She imposed a two-year suspended sentence conditional on recompense to two remaining clients within six months. Browne has already reimbursed three clients and faces professional strike-off.
Patrick McLoughlin, aged 35, of Torboy, Moydow, County Longford, has been sentenced to five years imprisonment, with the final eighteen months suspended, following his conviction for sexual assault at the Central Criminal Court in Castlebar, County Mayo. A jury found him guilty in March 2022 of sexually assaulting a woman in Galway city centre in August 2017. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring imposed strict conditions on the suspension, including engagement with the Probation Service. The judge remarked during sentencing that young men must understand that refusal of consent is unambiguous, criticising what she described as a widespread lack of understanding of the word "no" in sexual offence cases. McLoughlin maintains his innocence despite the jury verdict. His associate, Karl Reilly, was separately convicted of rape and sentenced to seven years with eighteen months suspended. The victim provided a statement describing ongoing trauma from the incident. Patrick McLoughlin pleaded not guilty.
A Longford man has been sentenced to seven years imprisonment, with the final eighteen months suspended, following his conviction for rape at the Central Criminal Court. Karl Reilly, aged 39, of Inny View, Aghara, Carrickboy, was found guilty by jury of raping a woman in Galway city centre in August 2017. The court heard that Reilly continued sexual contact with the woman after she explicitly asked him to stop when a second man entered the van where the incident occurred. The woman was subsequently sexually assaulted by the other man, whose case was adjourned pending sentencing. Justice Mary Ellen Ring emphasised the importance of consent and stressed that its withdrawal must be respected at any time. She noted Reilly has no previous convictions and was assessed as low risk of reoffending. The victim addressed the court regarding the lasting trauma she has experienced. The second man convicted of sexual assault will be sentenced next month.
The Workplace Relations Commission has rejected a discrimination complaint brought by a Longford man against a supermarket in the Axis Centre. John Ryan alleged he was treated unfairly on grounds of disability on 29 June 2021 when staff asked him to wear a face mask at Fresh Today. He claimed he suffered severe distress and panic attacks when wearing masks and produced a letter from a suspended Derry GP in support. The adjudicating officer declined to accept the medical letter as evidence, noting the GP had been interim suspended by the General Medical Council pending investigation into allegations of Covid-19 misinformation. The tribunal found Mr Ryan had not notified the shop of any disability and had not established a case of discrimination under the Equal Status Act. The complaint was dismissed.
A man from Longford has failed in his appeal against a six-year jail sentence for arson at the Court of Appeal. Lee Goodchild was convicted of setting fire to a house on Rattan Ash Road, Mullingar, on 26 August 2019, contrary to the Criminal Damage Act. He was sentenced in July 2021 at Mullingar Circuit Court to seven and a half years' imprisonment, with the final 18 months suspended for ten years. Goodchild argued the trial judge erred in law when setting a headline sentence of ten years. Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy rejected the appeal, finding the judge did not err in identifying the appropriate sentence. The court noted Goodchild was on bail and serving a suspended sentence at the time of the offence, and had prior criminal damage convictions. The attack caused considerable damage and distress to the occupant, who had to escape through a window. The unnamed appellant pleaded not guilty.
Barry Keane faces multiple charges including trespassing and handling stolen property (a keg of beer) at Park Road, theft of chocolate bars from a market, and cannabis possession. A Garda search of a vacant property at Park Road found a stolen keg and identification belonging to the defendant. The matter was adjourned to October 25, 2022.
Teresa Dinnegan (35), sister of Cindy Duignan, sought to reduce her sign-on reporting days from three to one per week. Her solicitor argued the reduced reporting requirement was necessary. Judge Owens granted the variation.