A man has been sentenced to eight years and nine months imprisonment by the Central Criminal Court following his conviction for the rape of his then partner's teenage sister. Stephen Lynch, with an address in Offaly, was found guilty in May 2021 of rape committed at a property in Athlone, County Roscommon, in October 2015. He was also convicted of sexual assault and assault causing harm arising from an incident in December 2015 at the same address. The court heard that Lynch had drugged and raped the first victim, then subjected a second woman to sexual assault while also attacking her friend who attempted to intervene. Justice David Keane imposed concurrent sentences, noting the offences were aggravated by the victim's age and the use of drugs. Lynch pleaded not guilty throughout. The sentences were backdated to May 2021 when he first entered custody following conviction.
The High Court has opened a hearing to decide the amount of losses owed to four publicans who won test actions against FBD for failing to pay business‑disruption claims caused by Covid‑19. The plaintiffs are Aberken (Sinnott's Bar), Hyper Trust Ltd (The Leopardstown Inn), Inn on Hibernian Way Ltd (Lemon & Duke) and Leinster Overview Concepts Ltd (Sean's Bar). Mr Justice Denis McDonald earlier ruled that FBD's policy covered losses from closures due to the pandemic and that the term 'closure' includes partial shutdowns. The current hearing, also before Mr Justice McDonald, will last about two weeks and will consider issues such as partial closure, staff costs, late payments, trends, under‑insurance and capital expenses. The court will hear evidence on how each issue applies to each pub, noting that Sean's Bar was closed from March 2020 to June 2021 and that partial closure was not relevant to it. The hearing continues.
In a High Court hearing on 13 May 2021, Mr Justice Denis McDonald ruled that the hearing to determine the quantum of losses claimed by four publicans against FBD's business‑disruption policy must be held within the two weeks remaining in the current legal term. The judge said no extra time could be granted before the term's August end due to limited judicial resources. He also criticised "unhelpful" cost correspondence between FBD's solicitors and those of two of the publicans, Aberken and Hyper Trust, urging a more professional approach. The publicans—Aberken (Sinnotts Bar), Hyper Trust (The Leopardstown Inn), Inn on Hibernian Way (Lemon & Duke) and Leinster Overview Concepts (Sean's Bar)—had previously won test actions against FBD for failure to pay Covid‑related disruption claims. The court noted progress on final orders, costs and quantum issues, and the hearing on quantum will begin on 6 July, with the judge available for only two weeks before the term ends.
In a High Court decision on 23 April 2021, Mr Justice Denis McDonald ruled that four Dublin publicans—Aberken (Sinnotts Bar), Hyper Trust Ltd (The Leopardstown Inn), Inn on Hibernian Way Ltd (Lemon & Duke) and Leinster Overview Concepts Ltd (Sean's Bar, Athlone)—were entitled to recover their legal costs, but only on a standard solicitor‑client basis, not the enhanced level. The judge also clarified that the term "closure" in FBD's Public House Policy covers partial closures, not only total shutdowns. He found that the policy's coverage applies when pubs are partially closed or restricted by government orders due to Covid‑19 outbreaks within a 25‑mile radius. The court will later determine the quantification of losses, and the case is set to return next month for further proceedings. The ruling affects about 1,000 Irish pubs and restaurants.
In a 2021 case, Simon Quilligan, aged 38, was sentenced to eight years' imprisonment with the final two years suspended after a court hearing in the Central Criminal Court. The sentence followed a trial where Quilligan was found guilty of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life, making threats to kill or cause serious harm to two individuals, and causing criminal damage by breaking a caravan window. The offence occurred at a halting site in Tullamore, Co Offaly, where Quilligan discharged a firearm at a group that included children aged ten months to six years. He had threatened the occupants, saying he would kill them all and blow their brains out. The judge noted the presence of children taking cover under a caravan and the terror inflicted on the families present. Quilligan had previously been convicted of 38 offences in Ireland and four in other jurisdictions, including burglary and illegal weapon transport. Simon Quilligan was acquitted.
In a High Court case, publicans argued that FBD's Covid‑disruption insurance covered losses from partial closures, not only full shutdowns. They claimed the policy indemnified them during periods when pubs were partially closed or limited in trade due to government restrictions. FBD countered that the policy only covered "completely closed" premises. Judge Denis McDonald had earlier ruled that the policy covered losses from closures prompted by nationwide outbreaks within a 25‑mile radius. The court is to decide the quantum of losses later, with a timetable for pubs to submit financial information. The case involves four test actions by Dublin and Athlone pubs, and the parties are also disputing legal‑fee costs. The dispute centers on whether the pandemic‑induced closures fall within the policy's coverage clause.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, Simon Quilligan, aged 38, was found not guilty of attempting to murder John McDonagh and of discharging a firearm that posed a substantial risk of death or serious harm. He was, however, found guilty of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life, making threats to Melissa Cowman, Sandra O'Brien and Victoria Doherty, and damaging a caravan window. Quilligan had fled to the UK after the 2018 incident at a halting site in Tullamore, where he fired a weapon at the McDonagh family and threatened others. He was extradited back to Ireland, arrested in Athlone, and has been in custody since December 2019. The court noted his 38 prior convictions and the feud between the Quilligan and McDonagh families, which the defendant claims is now over. The judge remanded him in custody until March 9 for sentencing.
In a High Court decision, Mr Justice Denis McDonald ruled that FBD Insurance's policies cover losses suffered by pubs that closed due to Covid‑19, overturning the insurer's earlier refusal to indemnify four test cases. The four pubs – Aberken (Sinnotts Bar), Hyper Trust Ltd (The Leopardstown Inn), Inn on Hibernian Way Ltd (Lemon & Duke) and Leinster Overview Concepts Ltd (Sean's Bar) – argued that their policies included a clause indemnifying them when closures were caused by outbreaks within 25 miles. FBD contended that the closures were not linked to such outbreaks and that it never insured against pandemics. The judge rejected FBD's interpretation, stating that coverage is not lost when closures are prompted by nationwide outbreaks. The parties remain in discussion over the quantum of payouts, with the court scheduled to address outstanding issues on 26 February. FBD has announced it will not appeal the ruling.
In a landmark High Court decision, Mr Justice Denis McDonald ruled that four pub owners are entitled to compensation from insurer FBD for losses caused by Covid‑19 closures. The judge held that the policy's coverage applies when a closure is prompted by outbreaks of contagious disease within a 25‑mile radius, even if the government's nationwide order is the proximate cause. FBD's argument that it never covered pandemics was rejected. The court clarified that losses incurred before the imposed closure are not part of the insured peril and that the pub owners may claim indemnity until losses cease or the indemnity period ends. The judge adjourned the case for further submissions, noting that the quantum of losses will be determined later. The decision affects about 1,000 Irish pubs and restaurants seeking claims under similar policies.
The High Court has postponed delivering its judgment in four cases brought by pub owners who challenge FBD Insurance Plc's refusal to pay business disruption claims arising from the Covid‑19 pandemic. Mr Justice Denis McDonald agreed to delay the decision to allow the parties to submit further arguments based on a forthcoming UK Supreme Court ruling that may affect the interpretation of "non‑damage" clauses in business interruption policies. The four pubs—Aberken (Sinnotts Bar), Hyper Trust Ltd (The Leopardstown Inn), Inn on Hibernian Way Ltd (Lemon & Duke) and Leinster Overview Concepts Ltd (Sean's Bar, Athlone)—argue that their policies cover losses when premises are closed by government order due to an outbreak within 25 miles. FBD contends the closures were not caused by an outbreak at the premises and that its policies do not cover pandemics, a risk not normally insured in Ireland.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Judge Martin Nolan sentenced Shaun Groome, 32, to 15 years' imprisonment for a brutal assault on Ciarán Murphy, 32, which involved 16 stab wounds and an arson attack that left Murphy with 96 % burns. Groome pleaded guilty to assault causing serious harm and criminal damage by arson. The judge described the offence as "exceptional" and noted Groome's "murderous intent" despite his guilty plea, reducing the headline 20‑year sentence to 15 years with no suspended portion. Groome claimed his actions were driven by misinformation that Murphy was a Garda informant and that he was influenced by drugs. The court considered his remorse, prior convictions, and potential for rehabilitation, but imposed the full custodial term. Murphy suffered severe injuries, lost his ears, and continues to endure pain. The case also involved co‑accused David Keena, 21, who received a five‑year sentence for his role.
A dispute involving family members over the running of Foxfield Inns Designated Activity Company, which owns well-known hotels in Dublin and Galway, has been admitted to the fast-track Commercial Court list. Mary Flannery, an applicant, alleges that her brothers Frank Flannery, Kevin Flannery, and sister-in-law Sheelagh Flannery, along with accountant James Norton, have acted in an oppressive manner, infringing her rights as a shareholder and director. Ms Flannery claims she was denied answers to her questions about the firm's affairs, which she says is oppressive to her interests. She also alleges that Mr Norton, who was appointed the personal representative of her late brother, acts as a 'shadow director' and exerts undue influence over the company. Mr Norton denies all allegations of wrongdoing. Mary Flannery has also raised concerns about the company's financial dealings, including payments to Mr Norton, corporate governance fees, and alleged irregularities in the company's banking arrangements and transactions. She claims that no proper explanation was given for the purchase and sale of an apartment in New York or the receipt of rents from commercial units in Galway by an entity called AutoExec. Mary Flannery seeks various orders from the court, including the purchase of shares, regulation of the firm's affairs, compensation, or the appointment of a liquidator. The matter was adjourned to a date in January, with the court to consider the application by Andrena Flannery to be added as a party to the action at a later date.
In a Circuit Court claim, 55‑year‑old Pamela Dudgeon sued Supermac's Ireland Limited for personal injuries sustained when a chair at a Galway outlet broke on 6 January 2017, causing her to fall. She alleges injuries to her lower back, backside and abdominal muscles, pain, difficulty driving and sleeping, and loss of work ability. Dudgeon seeks damages for negligence. Supermac's acknowledges the chair broke but denies that she fell or suffered the injuries claimed. Dudgeon's lawyers requested CCTV footage of the incident to support her claim; Supermac's opposed the request, arguing the footage was unnecessary. The Circuit Court rejected the request, and the High Court upheld that decision, stating the defendant's admission of the chair's defect made the CCTV unnecessary for the claim. The parties remain in dispute over causation and quantum of damages.
Judgement will be given early in the New Year on four important test cases brought by pub owners over the refusal of insurer FBD to pay out on business disruption losses over the Covid-19 pandemic. The four publicans have challenged FBD Insurance Plc's refusal to indemnify them and its stance that its policies do not cover the disruption caused by the pandemic. The test cases were brought by Dublin bars Aberken (trading as 'Sinnotts Bar'), Hyper Trust Ltd (trading as 'The Leopardstown Inn'), Inn on Hibernian Way Ltd (trading as 'Lemon & Duke'), and Leinster Overview Concepts Ltd (owner of 'Sean's Bar' in Athlone, Co Westmeath). Each pub owner claims that their policies with FBD cover consequential losses due to an 'outbreak of contagious or infectious diseases' within 25 miles of their premises. FBD disputes this, arguing that closures were not due to an outbreak at the premises or nearby areas and that the general insurance market in Ireland does not cover pandemics. The matter was adjourned following a three-week hearing, with Mr Justice Denis McDonald stating he hopes to deliver his decision in mid-January. The court proceedings were conducted using TrialView, a remote court system praised for its functionality during the hearing.
A senior FBD executive, Kate Tobin, admitted it was "somewhat unfair" that the insurer had told Noel Anderson, owner of the Dublin bar/restaurant Lemon and Duke, that his business disruption policy would cover losses caused by Covid‑19, only to withdraw that cover weeks later. Anderson, whose partners include rugby players Sean O'Brien, Dave and Rob Kearney, and Jamie Heaslip, had switched to FBD believing its policies covered coronavirus. He was outraged when FBD informed him after the March shutdown that the policy did not cover pandemic‑related losses. Tobin, speaking by video link, acknowledged the withdrawal was unfair and explained that the email sent in early March was vague. She said that if she had known at the time, she would have advised that the policy did not cover a general quarantine or government‑mandated lockdown.
In a High Court hearing, Paul Shanahan, a Business Development Executive at FBD Insurance, admitted he mistakenly informed Noel Anderson, managing director of the 'Lemon and Duke' bar, that FBD's business disruption policy covered losses caused by the Covid‑19 outbreak. Shanahan said he had emailed Anderson in early March stating the policy covered Covid‑19 related losses in the event of a forced closure, but after a meeting with publican representatives and senior FBD staff on 17 March he learned the policy did not cover such losses. He expressed concern, informed Anderson of the insurer's position, and sought guidance from his line manager on handling the bar's claim. Shanahan testified before Mr Justice Denis McDonald, under cross‑examination by Michael Cush SC, and stated he would never have misled a customer about coverage. FBD's Chief of Underwriting, Kate Tobin, also testified that confusion within the insurer led to the final position that Covid‑19 was not covered.
In a High Court hearing on 13 October 2020, Noel Anderson, Managing Director of the Dublin bar Lemon and Duke, testified that he had been assured by FBD that its insurance policy covered business disruption losses caused by Covid‑19. Anderson switched insurers in early March after learning the previous policy did not cover pandemic‑related losses. He claimed FBD had assured him of coverage for wages, losses and rent during lockdowns, and that the policy covered up to €3.2 million. In April, FBD informed Anderson it would not provide coverage, which he described as disingenuous. Anderson, who has partners including rugby players, argued that the policy's plain‑English wording indicated coverage for Covid‑19 closures. The case is part of a group of four pubs suing FBD for breach of contract over pandemic‑related business interruption claims. The hearing continues.
The High Court heard evidence on the fourth day of a test case brought by four pubs against Insurers FBD regarding pandemic-related losses. Stephen Cooney, a director of the Loyola Group which includes the Leopardstown Inn, testified that the hospitality trade has become much tougher since March. He stated that his business suffered immense losses and described FBD's response as a 'wall of silence,' noting that litigation was pursued as a last resort. Cooney denied claims that his business had declined prior to the closure, attributing a pre-closure drop to St Patrick's Day falling on a Tuesday. He argued the FBD policy covered business interruption from disease outbreaks, citing examples like Foot and Mouth. The applicants, including Sinnotts Bar, The Leopardstown Inn, Lemon & Duke, and Sean's Bar, claim FBD breached contract by refusing to indemnify them for closures ordered by the government due to contagious disease outbreaks within 25 miles. FBD disputes this, arguing a pandemic does not fit the policy clause. Counsel for FBD, Remy Farrell SC, noted a media-related issue had been resolved. The hearing was adjourned and continues next week.
In a High Court hearing on 8 October 2020, FBD Insurance's counsel, Declan McGrath SC, argued that the company's business interruption policies cover only localised disease outbreaks and do not extend to pandemics such as Covid‑19. McGrath rejected the claim that FBD was obliged to indemnify four Irish pub owners for losses incurred during the pandemic, stating that the policies do not cover pandemics and that the relevant peril is the period of government‑ordered closures, not the virus itself. He noted that the policies' clause covering closures due to outbreaks within 25 miles does not apply to a pandemic. McGrath also indicated that evidence would be presented showing that the bar and restaurant sector had already suffered losses from fear of Covid‑19 before the March closures, and that similar losses occurred in countries without enforced closures.
In a Commercial Court hearing, insurer FBD denied providing pandemic coverage, stating no policy for Covid‑19 had ever been requested. Four Dublin bars and a Westmeath pub sued FBD, claiming their policies covered losses from closures due to outbreaks within 25 miles. FBD argued the pandemic was outside the clause, citing specialist overseas brokers for such coverage. Counsel cited an English High Court ruling favouring the FCA, but argued the UK decision should not bind the Irish court. The parties discussed a potential breach of an implied undertaking regarding media release of pre‑trial documents. Judge Denis McDonald called the matter serious and urged investigation. The case remains ongoing, with parties agreeing to liaise on the undertaking issue. The hearing continues.
In a Commercial Court hearing, four Dublin‑based publicans and a bar in Athlone challenged FBD Insurance PLC's refusal to pay business interruption claims arising from the Covid‑19 pandemic. Senior Counsel Michael Cush argued that FBD's position—that the pandemic does not fall within the policy's coverage of "outbreaks of contagious or infectious diseases" within 25 miles of the premises—is "plainly wrong" and "makes no sense." Cush highlighted that the insurer's interpretation would exclude coverage for nationwide closures, a stance he said was unsupported by the policy documents. The publicans claim breach of contract and seek orders directing FBD to indemnify them for losses incurred during the temporary closures that began in mid‑March. The case, which involves 1,100 Irish pubs and bars, is ongoing and is expected to last several weeks.
David Nevin, 46, of Quay Road, Terryglass, Nenagh, Tipperary, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for a series of fraud offences. He used forged bank statements and payslips to obtain a €40,000 loan and to lease an Audi A5. Nevin pleaded guilty to inducing the hand‑over of the car at Leaseplan in Dublin on 14 June 2018, to presenting a fake AIB statement at Leaseplan Fleet Management Services on 28 May 2018, to using a false payslip in a KBC credit‑card application, and to deceiving a staff member at the Bank of Ireland Operations Centre in Cabinteely to authorise the loan. He had previously repaid €5,500 and brought an additional €1,000 to court. The car was returned to the leasing company. Judge Elma Sheahan noted the offences were pre‑meditated and part of an "aspirational lifestyle." She imposed a two‑year sentence, suspending the final six months.
Mary Walsh has applied to the High Court for permission to sue An Post National Lottery Company, which is in liquidation, alleging negligence regarding advice given on her €3.3m Lotto win. The application before Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington is opposed. Mrs Walsh claims a lottery representative advised that gifts to others should be exempt from tax if those persons signed the winning ticket. She alleges she was not informed of the full implications, leading her and five others, including her stepson David Walsh and her late husband's nephew Kevin Black, to sign the ticket. This resulted in litigation against her. The company argues the application should have been filed when proceedings began in 2016 and that the claim is bound to fail given a prior High Court judgment critical of Mrs Walsh. Counsel for Mrs Walsh, John Shortt SC, argued she should be allowed to bring the claim after changing solicitors. The judge reserved her decision. In the underlying dispute, Mr Justice Humphreys ruled in 2017 that David Walsh was entitled to a one-sixth share of the ticket, ordering Mrs Walsh to pay him €560,000 plus costs. Mrs Walsh appealed, but in 2018 the Court of Appeal was informed the action was resolved entirely, with her appeal allowed as part of a settlement. Mrs Walsh had claimed David Walsh accepted her and her late husband Peter Walsh's house in lieu of €200,000, a claim he denied.
Several pub owners have brought test actions against FBD Insurance, arguing that their policies cover losses from Covid‑19 closures. They claim the policy contains a clause indemnifying them if premises are closed by order due to outbreaks of contagious diseases within 25 miles. FBD disputes this, stating a pandemic does not fall within the clause and that closures were due to national measures, not local outbreaks. The four cases involve Dublin bars Aberken (Sinnotts Bar), Hyper Trust Ltd (The Leopardstown Inn), Inn on Hibernian Way Ltd (Lemon & Duke), and Leinster Overview Concepts Ltd (Sean's Bar). The owners seek orders directing FBD to indemnify them for weekly losses ranging from €30,000 to €56,000, and declarations that they are entitled to indemnity under the policy. Mr Justice Barniville admitted all four cases to the fast‑track Commercial Court, setting a hearing in early October for three actions and adjourned the Lemon & Duke case for mediation.
Interlink Ireland Ltd, trading as DPD, secured temporary High Court injunctions against two agents, Mr Joe Corcoran and Mr Bernard O'Brien, who sought to terminate their agreements amid the Covid‑19 emergency. The agents claimed they could no longer fulfil their duties, but Interlink argued no evidence was provided that the pandemic had materially affected their businesses. The agency agreements require six months' notice for termination, and Interlink has seen a surge in demand for essential deliveries during the pandemic. The court granted interim injunctions preventing the agents from ending the agreements and requiring them to continue operating as agreed. Interlink contended the agents were attempting to exploit the health crisis for commercial advantage, and the judge found the injunctions justified based on the evidence presented. The case will be revisited in a subsequent court session.
In March 2020 a Disclosures Tribunal heard that Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014, alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit had an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer. Keogh claimed he was bullied by Garda management after his disclosure. In 2017, Chief Superintendent John Scanlan of the Laois-Offaly District gave an interview praising Commissioner Noirín O'Sullivan. Keogh allegedly called 999 and threatened to "break Scanlan's jaw" after the interview. Scanlan said he was concerned but not angry, and that he had handled Keogh professionally. He also stated that he had received Keogh's complaint file in March 2017, had completed it by April, and had no role in its subsequent investigation, which began in November. The tribunal examined whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined or bullied after his disclosure. The hearing was chaired by Judge Sean Ryan. The tribunal has not yet reached a conclusion.
The Disclosures Tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating whether whistleblower Garda Nicholas Keogh was targeted after making a protected disclosure in 2014. The hearing, now in its tenth week, examined allegations that Garda A, a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, colluded with an alleged heroin dealer, identified as Ms B. Evidence presented included over 1,500 phone and text contacts between the two from May to August 2010. Garda A claimed he was cultivating Ms B as a tout. Chief Superintendent Margaret Nugent of Internal Affairs, who acted as protected disclosures manager, testified that she received a disciplinary report in February 2019 regarding these claims. She noted that while there was cause for concern over the excessive contact, there was insufficient corroborative evidence to definitively prove Garda A tipped off Ms B to dispose of her phone in June 2009. Consequently, Chief Supt Nugent recommended to Assistant Commissioner David Sheahan that a Board of Inquiry was not warranted due to a lack of substantiation for the majority of allegations, including claims of planting drugs. She recommended two warnings for minor matters. Garda A, who had been suspended since October 2015, was restored to duty on April 30, 2019, though he remains suspended in relation to other matters. The tribunal is adjourned to Monday, 2 March, 2020.
The Disclosures Tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, heard evidence regarding the treatment of whistleblower Garda Nicholas Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014. Assistant Commissioner Finbarr O'Brien testified that an eight-month delay in launching an investigation into Keogh's bullying claim was "unfair" to all parties. Keogh alleged that a senior Athlone drugs unit member was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer. His subsequent complaint, filed in March 2017 against Supt Pat Murray, Chief Supt Lorraine Wheatley, and Chief Supt Mark Curran, was not investigated until November 2017. The investigation concluded in December 2018, upholding no complaint of bullying. O'Brien stated he reviewed the file in early 2019 and upheld the findings, noting the delay was caused by legal complexities and witness issues. While Keogh's counsel argued the review was a "rubber-stamp," O'Brien rejected this, asserting the investigation was thorough and impartial. O'Brien acknowledged the delay was outside policy timeframes but maintained it did not disadvantage the evidence. Chief Supt Wheatley had previously expressed concern over the delay contravening policy ethos. Keogh's appeal of the review was rejected by Deputy Commissioner John Twomey in July 2019. The tribunal continues to investigate whether Keogh was targeted or bullied following his disclosure.
The Disclosures Tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, heard evidence in February 2020 concerning whistleblower Garda Nicholas Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in May 2014 about a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, Garda A, allegedly in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B. Keogh claimed he was targeted, harassed, undermined or bullied after his disclosure. The tribunal examined the mis-recording of Keogh's sickness absences as 'flu/viral' and the resulting pay cut to a 'temporarily reduced remuneration' level in late 2015, despite his GP certifying work‑related stress. Human Resources Chief Superintendent Tony McLoughlin, who managed protected disclosures, testified that Keogh had admitted to alcohol dependence due to work‑related stress and that his pay was restored and back‑dated in October 2016 after the absences were correctly recorded. McLoughlin also noted Keogh's concerns about management's handling of the investigation and his belief that the Garda Commissioner failed to protect him.
The Disclosures Tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is in its tenth week of hearing evidence regarding whistleblower Garda Nicholas Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014 alleging he was targeted. The proceedings examine claims that a senior Athlone drugs unit member, identified as Garda A, colluded with a heroin dealer, identified as Ms B. Assistant Commissioner Anne Marie McMahon, who conducted a disciplinary investigation assigned in 2017, testified that Garda A denied maintaining an improper relationship or tipping off Ms B. However, an analysis of 15,213 call records revealed 1,672 contacts between Garda A and Ms B between May and August 2010. Garda A stated he was trying to cultivate Ms B as a tout and denied advising her to discard phones. Asst Comm McMahon described the contact volume as inordinate and excessive, noting the calls were made to a phone owned by Ms B's 11-year-old daughter. Although Ms B initially confirmed Keogh's claims of collusion in November 2017, she later withdrew her statement. Asst Comm McMahon recommended a board of enquiry, asserting the investigation was thorough rather than a delay tactic used to target Keogh. She also recommended a peer review of her own investigation for openness, following a complaint by her husband regarding threatening calls. The matter remains at the pretrial stage with no final determination reached.
During a 2020 hearing, the Disclosures Tribunal examined evidence that a senior Garda from the Athlone drugs unit, referred to as Garda A, had made 1,600 phone contacts with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B, during a 2009 operation. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating whether Garda Nicholas Keogh, who disclosed misconduct in 2014, was targeted or harassed after his protected disclosure on 8 May 2014. Detective Inspector Michael Coppinger testified that the 1,600 contacts were recovered from Garda A's phone, which had been seized in April 2015, and that the data had been downloaded by telecoms before any alleged wiping. In October 2015, investigators searched Ms B's Athlone address and recovered up to 20 devices, including SIM cards, laptops and phones, but the evidence did not meet the threshold for criminal prosecution.
Adil Muhammad, 32, of Ankers Court, The Bower, Athlone, Westmeath, was ordered by Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to complete 240 hours of community service instead of a four‑year prison term for his role in a human‑trafficking operation. He pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of false passports on 15 January 2018, having supplied fake Indian passports to six Afghan nationals who entered the State as Afghan Sikhs. Muhammad, originally from Pakistan, claimed he had no payment for his involvement and that he was persuaded by a family friend. Judge Martin Nolan noted the case was troubling and that Muhammad had become involved after a friend's request, but found no evidence of profit. The judge warned that failure to carry out the community service would result in a four‑year prison sentence. The six individuals were linked to a criminal group that trafficked them from Afghanistan to Europe, with the final leg of the journey to Ireland.
In 2014, Garda Nicholas Keogh made a protected disclosure alleging that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, Garda A, had an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, and that Garda A had tipped her off on drug searches. Keogh also claimed that in 2009 Gardaí had planted half a kilo of heroin worth €75,000 on two suspects and that a file had been prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). He further alleged evidence destruction, theft of an investigation file, non‑compliance with a court order, exclusion of a known heroin dealer from an investigation, incorrect evidence storage and improper motives for a drug operation. The DPP, after reviewing the investigation, concluded that the evidence against Garda A was circumstantial and did not reach the threshold for criminal prosecution. The Disclosures Tribunal is hearing evidence on whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure. The tribunal is chaired by Judge Sean Ryan.
In a hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, retired District Court Judge Patrick McMahon, who served as the Confidential Recipient for Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh, recounted being surprised to learn that Keogh's name and the details of his protected disclosure were read aloud in the Dáil on the same day he received the information. McMahon explained that he had met Keogh on 8 May 2014 in a car in Kinnegad, where Keogh provided an affidavit dated 7 May 2014 and later a DVD containing an interview with an unnamed individual. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure. McMahon noted that the announcement in the Dáil caused him distress, as he had arranged a confidential meeting with Keogh. The tribunal is also reviewing the appointment of Assistant Commissioner Dónall Ó Cualáin to investigate the matter, a decision that Keogh expressed anxiety about.
Alan Craughwell (35) of Athlone, Co Westmeath, pleaded guilty to dangerous driving causing serious bodily harm following a collision with a nurse on December 24, 2017 at Taghmaconnell, Co Roscommon. He had been travelling with more than twice the legal alcohol limit and narrowly missed six oncoming vehicles before striking the victim's car. The Circuit Court imposed a fully suspended two-and-a-half year sentence in May 2019. The Court of Appeal found this sentence unduly lenient and re-sentenced Craughwell to two-and-a-half years imprisonment with the final 15 months suspended. Mr Justice George Birmingham described the driving as "sustained, rank bad driving" rather than isolated poor judgement. The victim, a nurse, sustained serious injuries including fractured ankles and experienced significant disruption to her working life and family activities. Craughwell's ten-year driving ban remained in effect, and he was required to enter a good behaviour bond for the suspended portion of his sentence. Alan Craughwell had the case dismissed.
A tribunal has heard that Chief Superintendent Lorraine Wheatley expressed being 'astounded, disappointed and incredulous' upon learning of a bullying complaint made against her by Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh. The Disclosures Tribunal is currently in its eighth week of hearing evidence regarding the treatment of Gda Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014. Gda Keogh alleges that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, identified as Ms B. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating whether Gda Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined, or bullied after making his protected disclosure on 8 May 2014. Chief Supt Wheatley, who was over Westmeath Garda Division in September 2015, was involved in a disciplinary hearing where Gda Keogh admitted a 'minor breach' of neglect of duty. Gda Keogh was fined €300 for going AWOL after a four-day drinking period in July 2015. He appealed the fine, which was upheld by Chief Supt Wheatley. Gda Keogh later raised concerns about the fairness of the review process, which were disputed by Supt Alan Murray and Chief Supt Wheatley. In November 2017, Chief Supt Wheatley was made aware of a bullying and harassment complaint made by Gda Keogh. The complaint was later investigated by An Garda Síochána and Chief Supt Wheatley was cleared. Earlier, the tribunal heard that Gda Keogh received a lesser fine for going AWOL due to work-related stress and heavy drinking. Supt Murray, who disciplined Gda Keogh, reduced the fine due to mitigating circumstances and stated that Gda Keogh was respectful and decent to deal with, but emphasized the importance of gardaí showing up for work. Gda Keogh later sought a review of the decision from Chief Supt Wheatley, who affirmed the penalty.
A senior Garda officer has told the Disclosures Tribunal that a whistleblower Garda was confined to indoor duties in 2015 due to concerns about his condition potentially damaging the reputation of An Garda Síochána. Superintendent Aidan Minnock stated that the decision was made by Supt Patrick Murray and that Gda Keogh was struggling with alcohol and work-related stress at the time. Gda Keogh denies that his hands were shaking when he was informed of the decision. The tribunal is investigating whether Gda Keogh was targeted, harassed, or bullied after making a protected disclosure in 2014. Superintendent Noreen McBrien informed the tribunal that an issue with Gda Keogh's car tax had been known since October 2014, leading to the withholding of subsistence and travel payments until the matter was resolved. One of the travel expenses claims made by Gda Keogh was for a meeting with then-TD Luke 'Ming' Flanagan, who would later name Gda Keogh as a whistleblower in the Dáil in May 2014. The expense claims were eventually paid in April 2015 after the car tax issue was resolved. Gda Keogh had claimed that the delays in his expenses and the car tax issue had amounted to targeting him for being a whistleblower, which the witness denied.
In a hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, Judge Sean Ryan examined whether Garda Nicholas Keogh was targeted after making a protected disclosure in 2014. Keogh alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, had an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B. In March 2015, Sergeant Yvonne Martin was appointed to a welfare support role for Keogh, but he never accepted the offer. Keogh claimed the appointment was a form of micro‑management aimed at undermining him because of his whistleblowing. Martin testified that she had not contacted Keogh and that the appointment was intended as extra support during a stressful period. The tribunal found no evidence that Keogh's criticism of Martin was linked to the Maurice McCabe tribunal, and no basis existed to hold that view. Keogh maintained that the appointment was part of a broader effort to undermine him as a whistleblower.
In a tribunal hearing on 6 December 2019, Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray denied allegations that he had undermined a whistleblower's claim. The whistleblower, Garda Nicholas Keogh, had reported in May 2014 that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B. Keogh's claim was that Ms B had been seen driving around his home in County Offaly on 28 October 2015. Murray described the observation as potentially lacking credibility, noting that Keogh had not reported the incident to local Garda Station and had only entered it into the Pulse system. Ms B denied being in the area that day, stating her car was in a garage in Athlone. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Seán Ryan, will reconvene on 20 January 2020 to continue its investigation into whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure. The hearing concluded with Murray's evidence presented to the tribunal.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray denied that assigning Garda Nicholas Keogh to the public desk was intended to humiliate or target him after Keogh's protected disclosure in 2014. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, examined whether Keogh was harassed or undermined following his disclosure of an alleged improper relationship between a senior Athlone drugs unit officer (Garda A) and a suspected heroin dealer (Ms B). Keogh alleged that his work was micro‑managed and that the public desk was the most stressful role, especially given his work‑related stress. He left on sick leave in December 2015. Murray argued the desk was not difficult and that Keogh had no protest. Evidence from Sergeant Andrew Haran described the public desk as the busiest, "booby prize" role, but Murray maintained the assignment was not intended to target Keogh.
In December 2019, a Garda chief superintendent denied allegations that he targeted and humiliated a whistleblower, Garda Nicholas Keogh, after Keogh made a protected disclosure in May 2014. The disclosure alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B. Keogh has complained of targeting and harassment by Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray, claiming his work was micro‑managed by three sergeants under Murray's direction. Murray denies these claims, stating he had no issue with Keogh and that any concerns about Keogh's alcohol problem were based on medical facts and welfare support. Murray also denies suggesting a transfer for Keogh and says any assignment of a sergeant to review Keogh's records was to ensure case integrity, not humiliation. The Disclosures Tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is investigating the matter.
In a Disclosures Tribunal hearing, Chief Superintendent Patrick Murray denied taking a sceptical or hostile approach toward Garda Nicholas Keogh, who made a protected disclosure in 2014. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, examined whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined, or bullied after his disclosure on May 8 2014. Murray, who became superintendent at Athlone Garda Station in March 2015, claimed he had no prior knowledge of station problems and had never met Keogh before their first meeting on March 26 2015. He stated he had no opinion about Keogh and that he had not formed any view regarding Keogh's conduct. Murray explained that he had been aware of Keogh's alcohol problem and work‑related stress, but he said he had not judged Keogh's work or welfare. He also noted that he had introduced new procedures in the district and had referred Keogh to a chief medical officer and a welfare sergeant.
The Disclosures Tribunal heard that interviews into Garda Nicholas Keogh's protected disclosure were held at Athlone Garda Station, where Keogh and the accused senior Garda, identified as Garda A, were both working. Judge Sean Ryan chaired the hearing. Keogh had made a protected disclosure on 8 May 2014, alleging that Garda A was in an improper relationship with an alleged heroin dealer, Ms B. The tribunal investigated whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined or bullied after the disclosure. Sergeant Andrew Haran, who led the investigations team, described the decision to conduct the interviews at the station as "an appalling idea" and said it caused discomfort and risk to Keogh's mental and physical health. Haran noted that Keogh's alcohol problems were known but that Keogh was not drunk at work. The tribunal considered the impact of the interview location on Keogh's well‑being and the overall conduct of the investigation.
A judge in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court sentenced Pakistani man Adil Muhammad, aged 32, to a suspended four‑year custodial term and a community service order for his role in a human‑trafficking scheme. Muhammad admitted to possessing six false Indian passports used to bring six Afghan Sikh family members into Ireland. The passports were obtained through false documentation, and the individuals had been trafficked from Afghanistan to Europe, with the final leg to Ireland. Gardaí traced the movement of the six people, who entered on flights from Malaga and later attempted to board flights to the UK. Muhammad pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of false passports dated 15 January 2018. The judge noted no evidence of profit and cited Muhammad's loyalty to a family friend as his motivation. The case was adjourned to 10 February for Probation Service assessment.
In a hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, Superintendent Noreen McBrien testified that she was concerned for the welfare of Garda Nicholas Keogh after he made a protected disclosure in 2014. McBrien, who had been the District Officer at Athlone Garda Station in 2014, recalled that Keogh had been treated for alcoholism but that this had not affected his work. She said she had a good relationship with Keogh and that she was surprised when she learned he was a whistleblower. McBrien explained that she had no prior experience with protected disclosures and that she had tried to support Keogh's welfare. She also noted that Keogh had raised concerns about whether a senior officer, identified as Garda A, should have access to a weapon during an investigation. The tribunal is still hearing evidence on whether Keogh was targeted or harassed after his disclosure.
In a hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, a civilian witness, Ms. O'Neill, testified that Gardaí approached her after she had made allegations of police collusion involving Garda Nicholas Keogh, a whistleblower who had disclosed alleged misconduct in 2014. Ms. O'Neill, who lived on the same Athlone estate as the alleged heroin dealer Ms. B, claimed that she was told by Garda Keogh to name names and that she had been advised to include Ms. B in her statement. Both Keogh and O'Neill denied that Keogh had instructed her to do so. O'Neill also recounted that two Gardaí, Tom Higgins and Detective Sergeant Eamon Curley, visited her estate two days after her station visit, asking about Keogh and whether she feared giving a statement. She said they were not interested in the dispute itself but only in Keogh.
Chief Superintendent Mark Curran, a senior Garda, gave evidence at the Disclosures Tribunal on 15 November 2019, stating he was "very upset" by a bullying claim made by whistleblower Garda Nicholas Keogh. Curran described Keogh's allegation that he had removed evidence DVDs from an Athlone Garda Station store as "daft and without basis", insisting no such removal occurred. He also denied any wrongdoing in handling a source that Keogh had refused to hand over, arguing that source management is a collective responsibility of An Garda Síochána and requires trained handlers. Curran rejected all targeting allegations, asserting he had acted within his duties and was not negligent. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, had heard from Keogh and was investigating whether Keogh was targeted after his protected disclosure of alleged Garda heroin‑collusion on 8 May 2014. Curran's evidence concluded on 15 November, with the tribunal resuming on 26 November.
In a 2019 hearing before the Disclosures Tribunal, Chief Superintendent Mark Curran denied that Garda whistleblower Nicholas Keogh became the focus of investigations simply because he made a protected disclosure. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, examined whether Keogh was targeted, harassed or bullied after he alleged Garda collusion in the drugs trade on 8 May 2014. Curran explained that the investigation began with a report written by Garda Aidan Lyons, which was later read by Curran. The report described an alleged interaction between Keogh and a man who claimed Keogh had encouraged complaints against Gardaí. Curran stated that the inquiry was directed at the named man and Keogh, not at other Gardaí, and that Keogh had denied any wrongdoing. He maintained that the focus on Keogh was a result of the allegations made in the report, not of Keogh's whistleblowing.
A garda whistleblower has concluded three weeks of testimony before an ongoing tribunal, maintaining that a former assistant garda commissioner orchestrated a "deliberate and unmitigated" cover-up when investigating his allegations of garda collusion with a heroin dealer. Garda Nicholas Keogh alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit engaged in an improper relationship with a heroin supplier. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Gda Keogh faced targeting, harassment, or bullying following his protected disclosure in May 2014. Gda Keogh submitted a complaint to the Justice Minister in 2016, contending that the subsequent investigation was fundamentally flawed. He referenced the Morris Tribunal's exposure of garda misconduct in Donegal during the 1990s as a parallel case. The tribunal continues hearing evidence, with three Athlone gardaí due to testify.
Garda Nicholas Keogh, a whistleblower, testified at the Disclosures Tribunal that his final days on duty were "paranoid and unbearable" after he made a protected disclosure on 8 May 2014. He alleged that a senior member of the Athlone drugs unit, identified as Garda A, was in an improper relationship with a heroin dealer, Ms B, who earned an estimated €2,500 a week. The tribunal, chaired by Judge Sean Ryan, is examining whether Keogh was targeted, harassed, undermined or bullied following his disclosure. Keogh also discussed his drinking problem, noting it had been an issue before the disclosure but had become problematic only once at work. He described feeling like a "sitting duck" for Garda management, being paranoid about documents and phone tapping, and said the last days of his service were difficult, with the 21 December 2015 being his final day on duty. Keogh refused to name his informant, citing concerns about safety.