Luke Caplice, a 29-year-old man from Knockane, Ballylooby, Co Tipperary, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to a charge that he attempted to murder Patrick Williams at Knockane on October 11, 2025. The court noted that Caplice is currently being held in Limerick prison but is "anxious to be sentenced in Dublin." Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the matter to November 2 and directed that a victim impact statement be prepared. The case is at the sentence stage, with the plea of guilty recorded. No final sentence has been imposed, and the matter remains adjourned pending the preparation of the victim impact statement and the scheduled hearing date.
A trial date has been set for a woman and a teenager who are accused of murdering Scarlett Faulkner, a mother of one, who died last March. Ms Faulkner, aged 29, passed away three weeks after an alleged assault that took place on the R494 at Birdhill, County Tipperary, on 21 March of this year. A 40-year-old woman and a 17-year-old girl have been charged with her murder, and the charges were brought earlier this month. Mr Justice Paul McDermott, who is presiding over the Central Criminal Court case list, has scheduled the trial for October 27 next. This development marks a significant step in the legal proceedings against the two accused individuals, who now face the prospect of a trial in the Central Criminal Court. The case has drawn considerable attention due to the tragic circumstances surrounding the victim's death and the serious nature of the charges against the defendants.
A 17-year-old boy has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of a man in Tipperary last year when he was just 15. At the Central Criminal Court, the teenager, who cannot be named due to his juvenile status, was charged with murder on March 10, 2025, but pleaded not guilty to that charge and guilty to manslaughter. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dean Kelly SC, stated that the plea was acceptable to the State and noted that the boy was 15 at the time of the offence. He requested that a probation report be prepared and asked the court to set a sentencing date. Mr Justice Tony Hunt fixed the sentencing for September 28, with the defendant remanded on bail to appear back before the court on July 29. The judge also directed that victim impact reports be prepared in the case. The court may review the sentencing date on July 29.
Irish Rail and Tipperary County Council are in a legal dispute at the High Court over a signal mast near the historic Cahir Rail Station, a Gothic revival structure from the 1850s. Irish Rail claims the mast is 130 metres away from the protected building and asserts that it has installed over 700 similar masts nationwide without issues. They are challenging the council's enforcement notice, issued under the Planning and Development Act 2000, which requires the mast to be removed by September. Irish Rail argues that the council incorrectly determined the mast's impact on the protected structure and misinterpreted the curtilage area. They also claim the council acted beyond its authority by suggesting that exempted works lose their exemption if they affect a protected structure's character. Irish Rail states that the protected status now only applies to the station building, not the other nearby structures. The council's warning carries a potential fine of up to €12 million and two years' imprisonment for non-compliance. The case will be heard again at the High Court on July 20.
Tomasz Rozpeda, a Polish national, has been sentenced to six years in prison for manslaughter after killing his friend, Maciej Nowak, on St Stephen's Day three years ago. The Central Criminal Court heard that Nowak suffered 27 injuries to his head and neck, with his brain twisting within his skull, indicating blunt force trauma from an object or flat surface. Rozpeda initially denied involvement but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court was told that both men had consumed substances to excess that night, and that Nowak had a high level of amphetamines and alcohol in his system. Rozpeda's defence highlighted his guilty plea and lack of prior convictions in Ireland, while the court noted the tragic impact on Nowak's fiancée and children. The judge set a headline sentence of nine years but reduced it to six due to Rozpeda's early guilty plea and other mitigating factors. The case was complicated by the lack of clear evidence and the fact that Rozpeda had previously been in contact with Nowak's fiancée to inform her of the incident.
A garda has gone on trial accused of child cruelty and the rape of his wife. The jury at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin heard that the 48-year-old man was allegedly a violent and domineering father and husband who subjected two of his daughters to unreasonable chastisement for most of their childhood. Prosecuting counsel, Dominic McGinn SC, told the jury that the man is alleged to have neglected his eldest daughter for most of her childhood and is charged with child cruelty against her on an unknown date between 2007 and 2013, and again between 2013 and 2020. He is also alleged to have assaulted this complainant causing her harm sometime in late 2021 or early 2022, after she had turned 18. The man is also charged with child cruelty of another daughter on an unknown date between 2015 and 2024. He has pleaded not guilty to two counts of raping his wife on two occasions in June 2009 and November 2021, as well as three counts of child cruelty and one count of assault causing harm.
A truck driver who caused the death of former Garryowen rugby player Mark McMullen three years ago has lost an appeal against his ten-month prison sentence. The Court of Appeal ruled that the driver, Gabor Mihalecz, was speeding and driving a defective lorry with a faulty braking system, which led to the vehicle jackknifing. Mihalecz had pleaded guilty to careless driving causing death and was sentenced to ten months in prison and disqualified from driving for four years. His legal team argued that the initial sentence of 20 months was too high, but the court dismissed the appeal, noting that the braking system defect was the main cause of the accident. The judge acknowledged that the driver's culpability might not be at the highest level, but the sentence was upheld as appropriate.
Gary Byrne and James Reilly, both convicted sex offenders, were jailed for 10 years each for drugging and attempting to rape a teenager in 2016. The men lured the victim to their home under the pretense of a house party before giving him an intoxicant, rendering him unable to move. They sexually assaulted him on the street and again in their home, with Reilly attempting to anally rape him. The victim suffered severe and lasting harm, leading to a loss of identity and self-worth. The court noted the aggravating factors, including the men's previous convictions and the use of an intoxicating substance. Both men were sentenced to 11 years with the final year suspended, and a three-year post-release supervision order was imposed. The victim expressed a desire for the men to be identified and encouraged others to come forward if they had been sexually assaulted.
The Supreme Court will hear an appeal by Dean Byrne, a Dublin man with over 120 convictions, challenging his 2024 Special Criminal Court conviction for conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. Byrne was sentenced to two years for allegedly conspiring with Aaron Brady to dissuade witness Daniel Cahill from testifying in Brady's murder trial. The Court of Appeal previously rejected Byrne's bid to overturn this conviction, finding he used unlawful means by sending the witness's Garda statement to a third party. The Supreme Court will now consider whether it can ever be lawful to persuade a witness not to give evidence. Meanwhile, Aaron Brady, who pleaded guilty to two offences related to efforts at perverting the course of justice during his trial, was sentenced to three years. Brady is serving a life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years for the 2013 murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe. Byrne's appeal raises a question of public importance regarding the legality of witness persuasion, while his prior record includes an 18-year sentence for aggravated burglary in Tipperary.
Martin Ward (64) was jailed for 12.5 years for repeatedly raping and sexually abusing his partner's niece when she was at her most vulnerable. Ward was found guilty of 27 counts of sexual abuse, including three counts of rape, nine counts of oral rape, and 15 counts of sexual assault. The abuse occurred between 2000 and 2004 when the girl was sent to live with Ward and his partner. The victim, Martina Ward, waived her anonymity and described the abuse as having stolen her childhood. She stated that Ward manipulated her and caused her profound trauma, including PTSD and ongoing mental health issues. Ms Justice Melanie Greally noted the breach of trust and the severity of the abuse. The judge set a headline sentence of 16 years but reduced it to 12.5 years considering mitigating factors such as Ward's lack of related convictions and his community work. Ward has eight previous convictions for road traffic offences and made no admissions during the trial.
The High Court has ruled that a District Court judge erred in law when he refused to convict thirty-four drivers caught speeding at Clogheen, Monasterevin in County Kildare. In December 2024, Judge Andrew Cody found the facts proven but declined to record convictions, describing the 60km/h speed zone as unjust and criticising prosecutions as motivated by targets and finance rather than safety. The Director of Public Prosecutions sought judicial review of four lead cases. Mr Justice Cian Ferriter found the judge's approach unlawful, stating a court must record a conviction when facts are proven. The judge's role was to apply existing law, not to question its correctness. Mr Justice Ferriter noted the judge's comments breached fair procedures and could create reasonable apprehension of predetermination. However, none of the thirty-four drivers opposed the DPP's action. The DPP adopted a sensible approach by not requesting remittal to District Court, meaning none will receive convictions or penalty points.
A 29-year-old man, Tomasz Rozpeda, was sentenced for manslaughter after his friend, Maciej Nowak, died from blunt force trauma during an incident on St Stephen's Day in 2023. Rozpeda had initially been charged with murder but later pleaded guilty to manslaughter. The court heard that Nowak had consumed excessive amounts of amphetamines and alcohol, but the cause of death was determined to be the result of the trauma, not the drugs. Rozpeda claimed that Nowak had become violent and self-harming, but the pathologist's report indicated that the injuries were not self-inflicted. Rozpeda had no prior convictions in Ireland, though he had three in Poland. The court heard victim impact statements from Nowak's sister and fiancée, who described the emotional devastation caused by his death. The judge noted that Rozpeda accepted responsibility and that the case fell in the medium range of culpability, with a headline sentence of between four and ten years. Rozpeda was remanded in custody until his sentencing in July.
A permanent ban will remain in place restraining a Tipperary farmer from entering lands that had been in his family for decades but were sold by receivers in 2022 for €1.5M to US-based businessman Maurice Regan. Farmer Patrick Heffernan had his application dismissed after he asked for an extension of time to appeal a ruling by the Circuit Court in Tipperary barring him from attending or trespassing on the 83 hectares of land. The application came before the Civil Court of Appeal after Mr Heffernan challenged an order of the Deputy Master made in October 2025 refusing to extend time for a notice of appeal. Ms Justice Eileen Roberts said the Circuit Court order in January 2025 was made on an unopposed basis in the absence of Mr Heffernan, who resides next to the lands near Fethard, Co Tipperary. Ms Justice Roberts said Mr Heffernan had mortgaged the land to AIB Bank and ACC Bank to secure borrowings.
A trial date has been set for Sean Harding (31), from Marian Terrace, Tipperary town, who is accused of murdering an 81-year-old pensioner, Timothy Murnane, in Tipperary town on September 12, 2025. Mr Murnane was found with serious injuries outside his home at St Michael's Avenue and later died at University Hospital Limerick two days later. In addition to the murder charge, Harding also faces three burglary charges related to the same location on September 11 and 12, 2025. The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court, where Mr Justice Paul McDermott set a trial date for October 5 and scheduled case management for June 5 next year. The court proceedings mark a significant step in the legal process for the accused, who is now set to face trial for the alleged murder and burglary charges. The case has drawn attention in the local community, with many awaiting the outcome of the trial.
Hotelier Noel O'Callaghan has failed to prevent his multi-million euro business dispute with his sons from going into arbitration, after a High Court judge found his arguments were "wholly inconsistent" with sworn evidence he gave in a previous application. Mr Justice Rory Mulcahy said Noel O'Callaghan argued that an arbitration agreement with his sons was invalid, despite having previously invoked the same agreement. The judge said the suggestion by Noel O'Callaghan that the agreement was invalid "is wholly inconsistent with his sworn evidence in his earlier application in which he sought injunctive relief in aid of arbitration." He added: "At the very least, a party who invokes an arbitration agreement should not subsequently be permitted to disclaim it on factual grounds without some compelling explanation for its change of position." He added: "In this case, the plaintiff offers none." "It is idle to speculate on what he hoped to achieve by this volte-face," said the judge, who commented that the arbitration agreement was "valid and subsisting." "In the circumstances, I am bound to refer to arbitration any disputes between the.
Four trainee gardaí have been granted permission to challenge their dismissals following an incident at the Garda College in Templemore, where they were accused of handcuffing a fellow student. The trainees, Rory Callaghan, David Hanley, Alan Kenny, and Darragh O'Connell, claim the incident was consensual and part of a light-hearted exercise. They argue that they were not given proper notice of the disciplinary meeting and were not afforded the right to cross-examine their accuser or challenge the decision to suspend their training. The trainees claim that the Garda Commissioner acted unlawfully by failing to apply fair procedures and that the decision to terminate their contracts was based on inadequate consideration of their training history and positive attributes. The High Court granted leave for judicial review, and the matter has been adjourned to May for further proceedings. The trainees deny allegations of inappropriate force and resistance from the handcuffed student, emphasizing that the exercise was consensual and part of a training scenario.
A son of multi-millionaire hotelier Noel O'Callaghan has submitted papers to the High Court, expressing deep regret over telling his father that if he had a gun, he would shoot him during a heated business dispute. The court has reserved its decision on whether the dispute between Mr O'Callaghan and his sons should proceed to arbitration. Paul O'Callaghan claims there has been a significant deterioration in his relationship with his father since August 2024, despite efforts to resolve the matter through mediation. He recounts an incident in September 2025, where, after a long and tense exchange, he made the comment in frustration. He later regretted the remark and reached a memorandum of understanding with his father, which the latter allegedly reneged on. The dispute stems from a 2016 agreement, under which Noel O'Callaghan stepped back from his hospitality business to focus on his bloodstock operations, leaving management to his sons. He claims he was promised an annual salary, credit card expenses covered, and control over Mountarmstrong stud, none of which materialised.
The High Court is hearing a motion on whether the case of businessman and hotelier Noel O'Callaghan, who claims that his sons excluded him from retaking control of his business, should go to arbitration. O'Callaghan (75) stepped back from the hospitality business he built over 40 years in 2016. He claims that his sons Paul and Charles O'Callaghan, Saira Company Dublin, and subsidiary company Sherborough Development Company, have attempted to exercise control over his bloodstock business without his consent. He alleges that there was a failure to disclose that KBC was negotiating the surrender of its lease on the Archers Building, which was sold for €16.6m, constituting an alleged material non-disclosure and secret profit. O'Callaghan claims that the 2024 arbitration clause is not operative and of no legal effect as he was never told of its existence and had been misled by his sons. The arbitration motion was brought by the defendants, which they say is facilitated by a clause in the 2024 agreement. The hearing continues tomorrow in front of Mr Justice Rory Mulcahy.
Tomasz Rozpeda, who had originally been charged with murdering Maciej Nowak, pleaded guilty to manslaughter at the Central Criminal Court. The charge concerns the unlawful killing of Nowak at Ballycranna, Kilross in Co Tipperary on or about December 26 or 27, 2023. Ms Justice Karen O'Connor adjourned the matter to May 18, directed a victim impact report and remanded Rozpeda in custody. The State will not proceed with the murder count after sentencing.
The High Court has dismissed personal injury proceedings brought by Anne Birkinshaw against the coroner for Tipperary North, North Tipperary County Council, and the Minister for Justice and Equality. Ms Birkinshaw alleged she suffered psychological trauma due to a 36-year delay in holding an inquest into the 1975 murder of her sister, Kathleen Cashin, who was killed in Co Tipperary. Following a Central Criminal Court trial in December 1975, an individual was found guilty but insane of the murder. Ms Birkinshaw claimed the late provision of a postmortem report in 2011, which contradicted her belief that her sister died quickly, caused significant injury. The defendants applied to strike out the 2013 proceedings under court rules on delay, arguing severe prejudice as key witnesses, including the State pathologist, are deceased or unavailable. Mr Justice David Nolan noted the case involved a "leisurely approach" with "total inactivity" between 2019 and 2024. He observed that the current coroner for North Tipperary is not liable for predecessors' acts. Although acknowledging the tragic background, the judge found the case offered little realistic prospect of success and that the defence faced clear disadvantage. Consequently, the court dismissed the matter, concluding it could not be saved despite the delays.
Denis O'Donovan, a 39-year-old from Ballyryan, Donohill, Co Tipperary, is appealing his conviction at the Court of Appeal. O'Donovan, who pleaded not guilty to five offences, was convicted of false imprisonment, assault causing harm, and two counts of sexual assault, while the jury failed to reach a verdict on one alleged sexual assault. In June 2024, Judge Dermot Sheehan at Limerick Circuit Court sentenced him to seven years in prison, with six months suspended. The appeal, launched by barrister Timothy O'Leary SC, argues that the trial judge erred in admitting the entirety of a 40-minute 999 emergency call made by the victim. Defence counsel contended the full recording was unnecessary, irrelevant, and prejudicial, asserting that the victim's direct testimony was sufficient. Additionally, O'Leary argued the judge failed to adequately instruct the jury regarding the absence of forensic analysis on samples taken from the vehicle. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Lily Buckley BL, countered that the call was probative and relevant, noting the victim's state of panic and the tactical decision by the defence to object to the full recording. The prosecution also maintained that the judge's directions to the jury to rely solely on the evidence before them were appropriate. Mr Justice John Edwards reserved judgment, meaning the matter was adjourned and the court will deliver its decision at a later date.
Gerard O'Brien, a former Circuit Court judge, has appealed his conviction for attempted rape and the sexual abuse of six young men. O'Brien, who pleaded not guilty to all charges, was convicted in December 2023 at the Central Criminal Court of one count of attempted anal rape and eight counts of sexual assault. The offences, alleged to have occurred between 1991 and 1997 when he was a teacher, resulted in a four-year jail sentence imposed in June 2024 by Mr Justice Alexander Owens, who described O'Brien as "unsuitable to hold office." In his appeal, O'Brien's counsel argued that the trial judge's instructions to the jury were "confusing" and "weighted against the defence," suggesting the charge conveyed personal views and pressured the jury. The State's legal team countered that these suggestions were "misconceived" and urged the Court of Appeal to uphold the conviction. The three-judge court, led by Mr Justice John Edwards, has reserved judgment on the appeal.
The Court of Appeal heard an appeal by a Tipperary man convicted of sexually assaulting his young cousin over five years and sentenced to 11 years, with the final year suspended. Counsel argued that his limited cognitive abilities and low risk of reoffending deserved greater weight; the court reserved judgment. The unnamed 36-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A dentist who defrauded the HSE of €58,000 over 17 years has been jailed for one year and ordered to pay €100,000. Jerome Kiely (47) pleaded guilty to multiple counts of deception, including one sample count of dishonestly inducing the HSE to provide a payment for dentures. The court heard that Kiely had two bank accounts containing over €1.5 million, which were frozen. Judge Martin Nolan noted that Kiely had mental health issues and a history of depression, and his wife asked the court not to jail him. Despite this, the judge imposed a three-year sentence, with two years suspended, and ordered Kiely to pay €100,000 to the HSE. The judge acknowledged Kiely's remorse and his good work history but emphasized the seriousness of the case. Kiely's reputation as a dentist has been destroyed, and the court noted that he may not be able to practice again.
A man has been sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court following his guilty plea to offences arising from the fatal shooting of Noel Campion in Limerick city in April 2007. Darragh Quinlivan, aged 42 and originally from Limerick but with an address in Bolton, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life and to participating in the activity of the Dundon-McCarthy criminal organisation. The court heard that Mr Campion, then 35, was shot multiple times whilst travelling as a passenger on a motorcycle at Thomondgate. Justice Paul McDermott described the shooting as callous and brutal, conducted in cold blood from close range during mid-morning on a public street. The judge noted victim impact statements detailing the lasting devastation caused to Mr Campion's family. In mitigation, the court considered Quinlivan's guilty plea and evidence of rehabilitation since 2012. The final sentence comprised 16 years with the last 12 months suspended, running concurrently with a four-year term on the organisational charge.
The HSE has admitted negligence and a breach of duty of care in the death of John Tuohy, who died after medics failed to perform a CT scan that could have saved his life. Tuohy fell at home and suffered a head injury, but the hospital did not conduct a CT scan as it was deemed not to be within NICE guidelines. He was discharged but later fell ill and was taken back to the hospital, where a CT scan revealed a large subdural haemorrhage. Tuohy died two days later. The HSE issued an apology, acknowledging that a CT scan should have been completed and that the failure to do so led to his death. The court ordered the family to receive €35,000 and their costs in the proceedings. The family expressed profound stress and anguish over the loss of their loved one and the substandard care provided.
A Tipperary hospital has issued an apology to the parents of Freddie, a baby who died during birth in 2021, admitting to 'shortfalls' in its duty of care. The incident occurred at Tipperary University Hospital, where the mother, Sinead O'Donnell, attended for ante-natal care and was transferred to the Labour Ward after experiencing pains. A Caesarian Section was performed, but the baby was born without a heart rate or respiratory ability, and resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. The hospital admitted to failures in responding to a CTG scan and delays in attending to the mother, which may have contributed to the stillbirth. The clinical negligence case was brought by the parents against the HSE, alleging breaches of duty and negligence in care. The hospital's letter of apology, issued by Maria Barry, expressed sincere regret for the shortfalls in care that led to the stillbirth of Freddie. The judge in the case extended his deepest sympathy to the couple, acknowledging the tragic loss of their son.
A 42-year-old man originally from Limerick City has pleaded guilty to participation in an organised criminal group and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life in connection with the fatal shooting of Noel Campion on April 26, 2007. Darragh Quinlivan, with an address in Manchester, did not plead guilty to murder. The Central Criminal Court heard that Campion, aged 35, was shot multiple times while travelling as a passenger on a motorcycle near Thomondgate in Limerick City. Quinlivan later fled to the United States, where he made incriminating statements to police and others whilst intoxicated, statements he subsequently characterised as "talk" and sarcasm. He was deported to Ireland in 2008. The case was reviewed as a cold case in 2022. Quinlivan has 24 previous convictions. Justice Paul McDermott remanded him in custody for sentencing on February 9. Victim impact statements were heard from Campion's daughter and widow.
Michael Murray, a 60-year-old cattle farmer from Moneygall, County Offaly, is appealing his conviction for importing €730,000 worth of cannabis. In 2023, a jury at Tullamore Circuit Court found him guilty of importing a controlled drug in excess of €13,000 and having drugs for sale or supply, rejecting his not guilty plea. He was sentenced by Judge Keenan Johnson to ten years in prison, with the final two years suspended. The appeal before the Court of Appeal centers on whether the jury was misled by prosecution evidence suggesting Murray was the specific target of a garda operation. Defence counsel argued that the solicitor failed to recognize the prejudicial nature of this evidence, which was introduced during the trial. State counsel countered that the defence solicitor explicitly agreed to the introduction of this material. The court noted that no requisition was made to the trial judge to object to the evidence, implying an agreement. The presiding judge, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, reserved judgment, and the matter was adjourned.
Sabrina Fox, a young woman who was repeatedly raped and abused by her uncles from the age of nine until she was 13, spoke out in court about the lasting trauma of the abuse. James Joseph Jordan and Patrick Fintan Jordan pleaded guilty to rape and indecent assault. Fox described how her uncles had intimidated her and told her to forget the abuse, leaving her feeling ashamed and isolated. Justice David Keane imposed a nine-and-a-half-year sentence on both men, noting the severity of the abuse and the vulnerability of the victim. The judge acknowledged the men's guilty pleas and their medical issues but emphasized the need for justice. The victims' impact statement highlighted the long-term effects of the abuse on Fox's life and mental health.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court unanimously convicted five men from Tipperary of colluding to inflate tender prices for school bus services in the south west of Ireland. The defendants—Raymond Heney, Andrew Walsh, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey and Anthony Flynn—were alleged to have coordinated bids for routes supplied by Bus Éireann, which handled 10% of school routes while contractors managed the remaining 90%. The prosecution argued that the men's concerted practice, led by Heney, aimed to prevent, restrict or distort competition, thereby affecting taxpayers and the Department of Education's €163 million budget for 2015. Each defendant pleaded not guilty. The court remanded all five on continuing bail pending a sentencing hearing on 23 March 2026. The case was brought by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and the Director of Public Prosecutions. The trial focused on the alleged coordination and exchange of information among the operators, rather than any formal agreement.
At the High Court, Mr Justice Max Barrett ordered John Magnier, JP Magnier, and Katherine Wachman to pay estimated €4 million in legal costs following their failed 19-day challenge to the sale of a Tipperary estate. The applicants had sought to enforce a purported €15 million 'handshake deal' with Richard Thomson-Moore, while the Barne Estate defendants alleged no such agreement existed and subsequently sold the land to Maurice Regan for €22.25 million. In a costs hearing, the judge awarded exceptional costs at the higher legal practitioner-client level, stating that the plaintiffs had 'lied' in their accounts and changed their story when initial evidence was found to be 'demonstrably untrue.' The judge described this conduct as a 'disrespect' of the court and the defendants. Counsel for the Magnier side, Paul Gallagher SC, rejected allegations of 'lawfare' and described his client as a man of honour, while opposing counsel Martin Hayden SC argued the Magnier side acted on a false premise. The Magnier side has indicated an intention to appeal the judgment delivered last September. The matter was adjourned regarding the appeal process, and the judge noted no criticism of the legal teams on either side.
The trial of five bus operators accused of colluding to inflate school transport tender prices is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Raymond Heney, Andrew Walsh, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey, and Anthony Flynn have all pleaded not guilty to alleged offences under the Competition Act 2002. The single charge against each accused alleges that between November 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016, they engaged in a concerted practice to prevent, restrict, or distort competition in the provision of school transport services. The prosecution alleges the men coordinated their bids to drive prices higher, affecting public funds. In his closing speech, defence counsel Dermot B Cahill SC argued that Heney acted as a consultant to assist other operators with administrative processes, stating that without him, there would be fewer drivers available to transport children to school. He contended that the accused were not a faceless corporation but local individuals supporting their trade. Conversely, prosecution counsel Dominic McGinn SC argued that the evidence showed a concerted practice to distort the market and load the dice against taxpayers. The jury is instructed to consider the evidence against each accused separately while viewing the overall context. The trial continues before Mr Justice David Keane.
Five school bus operators from Tipperary are on trial in the Central Criminal Court for allegedly colluding to distort competition in the provision of school transport services. The prosecution alleges that between 2014 and 2016, the accused engaged in a concerted practice to manipulate tender prices and allocate routes among themselves. Prosecution counsel Dominic McGinn SC stated that the accused discussed bidding strategies and pricing, which led to higher prices for taxpayers. The trial has heard that one of the accused arranged meetings to coordinate efforts, and that there was a degree of coordination among the parties. The prosecution argues that this was not a formal agreement but a form of collusion that distorted the market. The case is not about the importance of school transport for children but about the manipulation of public funds. The trial continues with the jury considering the evidence presented.
A garda, Eoghan McGowan, who assaulted a 17-year-old boy by pouring puddle water over his tracksuit bottoms in a deliberate act of degradation, had his two-month jail sentence overturned on appeal. The incident occurred in 2023 when McGowan, in plain clothes, approached the teenager, searched him, and then poured water over his clothing, calling him names. The victim, who was in the care of the State, reported feeling humiliated and left on the street dirty. McGowan apologized and paid €5,000 in compensation. The appeal court found that the sentence was too harsh and replaced it with 60 hours of community service and an additional €5,000 payment. The judge acknowledged the severity of the act but noted McGowan's guilty plea, remorse, and lack of prior offenses. The case highlights the need for accountability within An Garda Siochana and the impact of such actions on vulnerable individuals. Eoghan McGowan had the case dismissed.
A drug addict with 100 convictions who used to 'roam around the city' has been jailed for three years for targeting and robbing a man in the early hours of the morning. Gerard O'Toole pleaded guilty to one count of robbery. He has 99 previous convictions, including theft, robbery, and assault. The court heard that O'Toole was on bail when he committed the offence. Judge Martina Baxter noted that O'Toole has developed insight into his offending and has maintained it. A probation report highlighted his efforts in dealing with his addiction and his remorse. The judge set a headline sentence of six and a half years but reduced it to five years, suspending the final two years for two years. O'Toole was identified on CCTV footage during the robbery, which showed a disturbing incident. His defence highlighted his difficult childhood and the impact of being placed into care.
George Hackett, a 39-year-old man with over 200 previous convictions, had his six-year jail sentence reduced to four years and six months on appeal. Hackett was found guilty of burglary and two attempted theft charges after breaking into a house and stealing a Revolut card. During the burglary, he threatened to use a knife when restrained by a neighbor. The Court of Appeal noted that the original sentence was too harsh and that Hackett's rehabilitation efforts should have been considered. The court acknowledged the aggravating factors, including the burglary at a dwelling and the threat of violence, but also recognized Hackett's willingness to engage in rehabilitation. The new sentence includes six months suspended, and Hackett is encouraged to seek help to break the cycle of criminality.
A warehouse worker who was sacked after suffering severe eczema from handling cosmetic products has won €13,000 in compensation for disability discrimination. Santa Musinska, a Latvian national, was employed at a Masterlink warehouse in Clonmel, where she developed allergic eczema after handling cosmetics. Despite being provided with gloves, her condition worsened, leading to repeated sick leave and eventual dismissal. The Workplace Relations Commission ruled that her eczema constituted a temporary disability under the Employment Equality Act. The adjudication officer noted that the staffing agency failed to provide reasonable accommodation and that the dismissal was likely due to her disability. The agency was ordered to pay €5,000 for disability discrimination and €8,000 for discriminatory dismissal. This case marks the first in Ireland where eczema was recognized as a disability in a workplace discrimination claim.
The trial of five school bus operators accused of anti-competition practices is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court. Andrew Walsh, Raymond Heney, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey, and Anthony Flynn, all from County Tipperary, have pleaded not guilty to a single charge under the Competition Act 2002. The prosecution alleges that between November 1, 2014, and December 31, 2016, the defendants engaged in a concerted practice to prevent, restrict, or distort competition in school transport services across Limerick, Tipperary, Clare, South Galway, and Waterford. Prosecution counsel Dominic McGinn told the jury that the accused allegedly coordinated their bidding behavior, including holding meetings to discuss route allocation and pricing, and submitting non-genuine bids to elevate tender prices. He stated that this alleged collusion removed true competitiveness from the process, which affects the public. The case is being brought by the Competition Authority, with evidence including documents, text messages, and expert testimony expected. The jury must determine if a concerted practice occurred and if each defendant was involved. The trial is presided over by Mr Justice David Keane and is expected to last up to six weeks. The matter continues before the court.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, two defendants, David O'Brien (22) and Elisabeth Bello (50), received suspended sentences for acting as money mules in a romance fraud that defrauded an 85‑year‑old pensioner of €27,000. The victim was deceived by a woman posing as a divorced American mother on Match.com, who persuaded him to purchase iTunes gift cards, transfer €2,800 to a solicitor for an "anti‑money laundering certificate," and pay €24,516.13 in storage fees. The victim's funds were moved into O'Brien's AIB account and later into Bello's account. Both defendants pleaded guilty to handling or processing proceeds of crime. Judge Orla Crowe sentenced O'Brien to one year and Bello to two years, suspending both on the condition of good behaviour and peacekeeping. No further convictions or outcomes are mentioned in the article.
John Joseph Carey, a 57-year-old man from Tipperary Town, was sentenced to seven years in prison at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to having 16.6 kg of cocaine for sale or supply at Dublin Port on October 10, 2022. The drugs, estimated to have a street value of €1,232,560, were concealed in a Perspex box built into the chassis of a camper van driven by Carey. Prosecution evidence indicated that Carey, who has no previous convictions, was pressured to transport the cocaine to settle a debt that had risen to €250,000. Judge Martin Nolan accepted Carey's guilty plea and noted his cooperation with the Garda investigation. The judge described Carey's culpability as "low to mid," acknowledging that he did not own the drugs and acted to resolve personal financial problems. Consequently, the court imposed a sentence of seven years. The matter was finalized with this sentence, reflecting the court's assessment of the defendant's role and mitigating factors.
Five bus and taxi operators from Limerick, Tipperary, Clare, South Galway and Waterford have gone on trial at the Central Criminal Court. They pleaded not guilty to a single charge under the Competition Act 2002, alleging that between 1 November 2014 and 31 December 2016 they engaged in a concerted practice that prevented, restricted or distorted competition in school transport services. The prosecution is by the Competition Authority. Mr Justice David Keane empanelled a jury of seven men and five women; the trial is expected to last up to six weeks.
Amy McAuley (35) has been sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of the use of a false instrument through submitting a false death notification form to Wexford County Council on January 19, 2023. She also pleaded guilty to attempting to pervert the course of justice on January 23, 2023, and to a count of forgery of a medical report on November 23, 2022, both at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court at the Criminal Courts of Justice, Parkgate Street. The case is currently at the appeal stage. Judge Orla Crowe imposed a global sentence of four years, with the final 12 months suspended on strict conditions for four years. McAuley was also directed to place herself under the supervision of the Probation Services for 12 months post-release. The judge noted that McAuley's actions were a deliberate scheme to pervert the course of justice and involved significant breaches of trust. McAuley has four previous convictions for theft and deception offences. The matter was adjourned for appeal.
Billionaire John Magnier lost a High Court case over a failed bid to buy the Barne Estate in Tipperary. He had claimed a €15‑million handshake deal with Richard Thomson‑Moore, an heir to the 751‑acre estate, but the court found no binding agreement existed. The defendants argued that no consent from the estate trustees had been obtained and that the parties had not reached consensus on essential terms. The court noted that the parties understood that a formal written contract was required and that no one present had authority to bind the estate. The judge refused all reliefs sought by Magnier, concluding that the case failed on all grounds. Legal costs, expected to run in the millions, will be decided later. The case lasted 19 days in the Commercial Court.
In a High Court hearing on 30 July 2025, construction magnate Maurice Regan, who outbid John Magnier for the Barne Estate in Tipperary, admitted to sending a WhatsApp message in October 2023 to a third party hoping a newspaper article would give Magnier a "heart attack". Regan appeared before Mr Justice Max Barrett and was questioned by Paul Gallagher SC, who represented Magnier. Regan said the message was a "light humour" remark and that he had no knowledge of an exclusivity agreement that had been in place between 31 August and 30 September 2023. He denied funding the Thomson‑Moore defence, claimed he had been blocked from bidding, and said he had never been told of the exclusivity clause. The court heard that Magnier seeks to enforce a €15‑million handshake deal he alleges was signed with Richard Thomson‑Moore, while the estate trustees and Thomson‑Moore deny any such agreement existed. The dispute remains ongoing.
Christopher Ryan, 33, pleaded guilty to rape, sexual assault, assault causing harm and criminal damage at the Central Criminal Court. He was sentenced to 11½ years for rape, five years for sexual assault, four years for assault causing harm and two years for criminal damage, all concurrent. A 12‑month portion of the total term was suspended on the condition that he engage with the Probation Service. He was ordered to have no contact with Kerrie Keane for the duration of his imprisonment and the suspended period. Keane, who was raped and assaulted by Ryan in her Galway home on 11 November 2023, moved into emergency accommodation with her daughter after the attack. She gave a victim impact statement describing ongoing fear, anxiety, nightmares and depression, and expressed gratitude for police support. Ryan's previous conviction was for theft. The case was prosecuted by Marc Thompson BL and heard by Justice Mary Ellen Ring.
In a High Court hearing on 29 July 2025, trustees of the Barne Estate in Tipperary rejected a sale to John Magnier after he sent two brown envelopes containing €50,000 to the estate's chief beneficiaries. Magnier claims a €15 million 'handshake deal' was sealed with heir Richard Thomson‑Moore on 22 August 2023, but the trustees say no formal agreement was reached. The trustees had initially preferred Magnier's bid over that of construction magnate Maurice Regan, who offered €5 million more. After the exclusivity period ended in September 2023, the trustees chose Regan's €22.25 million offer, citing concerns over the cash envelopes as a potential inducement and the need for due diligence on Regan's higher bid. Magnier has sued the trustees and related companies to enforce the alleged deal, while the trustees maintain no agreement existed. The case remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
In a High Court hearing, estate agent John Stokes testified about a disputed purchase of the Barne Estate, a 751‑acre Tipperary property. John Magnier, a bloodstock billionaire, claims he secured a €15 million handshake agreement with Richard Thomson‑Moore on 22 August 2023, and is suing Thomson‑Moore and Barne Estate Ltd for the deal's collapse. Stokes denies that he informed trustees of the estate about the offer, stating he had no contact details for them and that any agreement was subject to trustee approval. He also says he received a €50 000 payment in September 2023 intended for the Thomson‑Moore beneficiaries, which was later returned. Stokes describes the negotiations as "head‑wrecking" and notes that an exclusivity period ended when a rival offer of €20 million, later €22.25 million, was made by construction magnate Maurice Regan. The case remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
In a High Court hearing on 24 July 2025, the court considered a deleted text message sent by Alexandra McCullough, sister of Richard Thomson‑Moore, which criticised American tycoon Maurice Regan and praised John Magnier as "savvy" and "decent". The message, sent to auctioneer John Stokes on 10 September 2023, described the competition for the 751‑acre Barne estate in Tipperary as a "full on war" and alleged Regan had "thrown a tantrum" over the sale. McCullough said she deleted the message because she feared the disparaging remarks about Regan would become public if the trustees accepted Regan's higher offer. The court heard that McCullough had also received a €50,000 cash gift from Magnier, which she later returned, and that she felt uncomfortable with the cash offer. The case involves Magnier's claim that he had a €15 million hand‑shake agreement with Thomson‑Moore for the estate, a claim the Barne defendants deny.
The High Court trial concerning a disputed €15 million agreement for the 17th-century Barne Estate in Tipperary continued before Mr Justice Max Barrett. Applicants John Magnier, Richard Thomson-Moore, and Century Barne Estate are parties to the litigation, where Mr Magnier seeks to enforce an alleged handshake deal. Mr Thomson-Moore, giving evidence in defence, stated he was "shocked" by an "untoward" offer of two envelopes containing €50,000 in cash, described by the Magnier side as a "luck penny" or token of appreciation. The defendants deny a binding agreement existed, noting that estate trustees ultimately accepted a higher offer from Maurice Regan, who is not a party to the case. Mr Thomson-Moore testified that while a price was agreed, a final deal was not, and that the cash was later returned. Cross-examination focused on lists of the mansion's contents, with the Magnier side suggesting an intent to withhold high-value items from trustees, an allegation Mr Thomson-Moore denied. The matter remains at the trial stage and has not been finalised.