A veteran Bus Éireann employee, George Moloney, who was blocked from seeking medical retirement due to an ongoing personal injury case, has won €40,000 in compensation from the company. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ruled that Moloney was penalized in breach of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. Moloney, who has worked for the company for over 40 years, was diagnosed with a hand condition attributed to prolonged exposure to vibrating tools. Despite the company agreeing to consider his medical retirement, they refused to proceed independently of the personal injury claim. The WRC found that this refusal caused Moloney significant financial detriment and ordered the company to process his medical retirement application without regard to the ongoing civil proceedings.
Teacher Enoch Burke has launched a High Court challenge against the decision to refuse reinstating his employment at Wilson's Hospital School. Burke alleges bias and breach of fair procedure in the decision. He is challenging the decision of the Disciplinary Appeal Panel (DAP) and the procedures underpinning his dismissal. Burke, an evangelical Christian, was suspended and later dismissed over his conduct towards the then-principal regarding a request to use a student's new name and pronouns. He has spent over 700 days in prison for contempt of court orders barring him from the school and has accumulated significant fines. Burke argues that the DAP chair, Claire Callanan, should have recused herself due to her connection with the Church of Ireland, of which the school is a part. He also claims that as a lay litigant, he was at a disadvantage during his appeal. The court granted permission for judicial review and adjourned the matter to October.
A survivor of the Stardust nightclub fire, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, was left aghast after learning the government plans to compensate injured survivors with a flat fee of €20,000, limited to those who participated in a 1985 tribunal. Fitzpatrick, who suffered catastrophic burns in the 1981 fire, has campaigned for justice for over 40 years. His lawyers sought a judicial review of the payment scheme, arguing it was introduced without consultation with survivors. The government had previously committed to a tailored redress scheme for injured survivors, but the new plan excludes many. Fitzpatrick's legal team emphasized the exclusionary nature of the eligibility criteria and the lack of engagement with survivors. The High Court granted leave for a judicial review, with the matter adjourned to November. Fitzpatrick recounted the fire, describing the chaos and the loss of friends. He recalled seeing a bouncer with a fire extinguisher and the fire spreading rapidly. He was severely burned and had to be rescued by an unknown man. The case highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and redress for survivors of the Stardust tragedy.
A retired Irish‑speaking Garda sergeant from Donegal, Paul Wallace, has been granted permission by the High Court to challenge the Garda Commissioner's refusal to reinstate his Ghaeltacht allowance, which he claims costs him €249.38 a month in pension payments. Wallace, who served as a Garda from 1985 and was promoted to sergeant in 1993, was allocated to several stations in Gaeltacht areas, including Glencolmcille and Bun Beag, and later to Letterkenny. He received the allowance for four years from 2003 and applied for its restoration in 2007, but was refused because Letterkenny was not designated as a Gaeltacht area at that time. He argues the Commissioner erred in law by failing to consider all relevant factors and by treating Letterkenny unfairly. The case, his second this year, was adjourned to November by Justice Mary Rose Gearty after a judicial review was granted by Paul McGarry SC.
The Waterford Intellectual Disability Association (WIDA) has been ordered to pay over €320,000 in compensation to Fiona O'Neill, a senior manager, for alleged bullying and harassment by the former chairman. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) found that WIDA penalized O'Neill in a most egregious manner while being fully aware of her protected disclosures. The case involved allegations that the chairman attempted to replace O'Neill and that the external HR consultant's reports went beyond their terms of reference. The WRC awarded the highest sum ever under the Protected Disclosures Act, and directed WIDA to quash the reports, cease the interim CEO position, and offer O'Neill a full apology. The new board of WIDA has conceded all allegations and offered an unequivocal apology.
A 48-year-old man from Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, has been jailed for 11-and-a-half years for the rape of a 16-year-old girl. Richard Murphy was found guilty of rape and oral rape in October 2022 after a trial in Waterford. The victim was in a consensual relationship with Murphy's son when they were in the garden of a house. Murphy arrived and asked the girl for her parents' details, which she fabricated. He then orally and vaginally raped her before telling her not to tell anyone. The victim later informed her friends, who helped her report the crime. Murphy was on bail at the time for other sexual offences involving young girls. The judge described him as a danger to young girls and noted the aggravating factor of his being on bail. The victim's impact statement highlighted the lasting trauma she experienced. The judge imposed a consecutive sentence of 11 years and six months to Murphy's current sentence. The court also extended legal aid in the event of an appeal.
Two Somali nationals have been awarded legal costs after the State failed to enforce return orders within the required six-month period, according to a High Court ruling. Mr Justice Anthony Barr ruled that the applicants were entitled to their costs for judicial reviews against the Return Orders, as the State did not act within the statutory timeframe. The judge noted that the matter had become moot, rendering the judicial review proceedings inoperable. The Chief State Solicitor had previously informed the applicants that the matter could be struck out without an order on costs, but the applicants pursued their claim, arguing that the State's inaction was responsible for the delay. The judge emphasized that the State's failure to execute the return orders made the proceedings moot and entitled the applicants to their costs. The ruling highlights the importance of timely enforcement of legal orders and the consequences of State inaction.
The High Court adjourned a dispute between tenant Muhammad Amjad and landlord Imtiaz Khan, principal of IMK Property Investment Ltd, following a written settlement agreement. Mr Justice Micheál O'Connell remarked that "sanity has broken out" after hours of negotiation, agreeing to adjourn the matter to October. The case, which was expected to last four days, involved allegations by Mr Amjad that he was threatened with a hammer and explicit threats to strike him if he did not vacate the property within three minutes during an attempted eviction in February. Mr Amjad claimed his children were traumatised and that the lease termination notice was invalid. Mr Khan and IMK Property denied all wrongdoing, stating the claims were "extremely serious and entirely untrue." They submitted that the tenancy was terminated due to the extensive nature of repairs required for safety and welfare reasons, citing non-compliance with regulations found by Fingal County Council. Mr Khan denied carrying a hammer or issuing threats, noting no incident was reported to gardaí. The judge had previously urged both sides to settle, warning of reputational damage. Outside court, Mr Amjad's solicitor stated he was "delighted" with the settlement. The matter was adjourned, not concluded.
The High Court heard a dispute between tenant Muhammad Amjad and landlord Imtiaz Khan, principal of IMK Property Investment Ltd, regarding an alleged unlawful eviction. Mr. Amjad, a father of six, alleges that on February 28, Mr. Khan arrived at their rental property in Ongar Village with eight individuals and a hammer, issuing explicit threats to strike him if he did not vacate within three minutes. He claims his children were visibly traumatised and seeks a declaration that the lease termination is invalid, along with an interlocutory order to prevent eviction. Mr. Khan and IMK Property deny these claims, describing them as entirely untrue and causing reputational damage. They submit that the tenancy was terminated due to extensive repair needs identified by Fingal County Council, including gas safety checks, and that the family was properly served with notice. Mr. Khan asserts no coercive campaign occurred and that no incident was reported to gardaí. Mr. Justice Micheál O'Connell suggested the matter was suitable for mediation, warning both parties they might regret their "red lines" given the reputational implications and witness testimony. However, following morning negotiations, the case was to continue. The trial is scheduled to last four days. In March, the court had already granted temporary orders restraining interference with the family's quiet enjoyment of the premises.
Dublin city councillors have initiated a High Court challenge against the State to remove the name of former Israeli President Chaim Herzog from a park in south Dublin and rename it after Terence Wheelock, who died in 2005 following his arrest on suspicion of car theft. Herzog, born in Belfast and raised in Dublin, was president of Israel from 1983 to 1993. His son, Isaac Herzog, is the current Israeli president. Political activists have called for the name change in protest against Israel's actions in Gaza. Councillors argue that the government has not introduced legislation allowing local authorities to rename public places. Cllr Conor Reddy, along with several other councillors, is seeking judicial review against the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and the Attorney General. The case hinges on the failure to introduce regulations under the Local Government Act 2001, which would allow councils to hold local ballots for renaming public places. The court has adjourned the matter to October to allow the State to oppose the application if they wish.
A teacher is pursuing a 24-year-old gender discrimination claim against UCD, alleging that the university refused him a place on a Master's course despite him being "more qualified than at least the least-qualified" woman who was chosen ahead of him. Patrick Kelly of Edenderry, Co Offaly, applied to the High Court today seeking permission to cross-examine the university's director of legal services, Julian Bostridge. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty fixed a date in May 2027 for the hearing of the motion. Ms Justice Gearty set a further date of 15 July for the substantive hearing of the matter, at which time it will be 25 years old. Mr Kelly has taken his case against University College Dublin, National University of Ireland, Dublin, with the Director of the Equality Tribunal as a named notice party. He submits that when he applied for a place on a social sciences Masters course in March 2002, he was "under-marked" because of his gender and discriminated against during his course interview.
A High Court judge has ordered that the mother of a child rape victim be brought before him to face allegations that she filmed her daughter's abuser in court and posted it on social media. The woman is alleged to have made a video recording in court of her 17-year-old daughter's rapist and to have posted it on Facebook. The identity of the 30-year-old Carlow defendant cannot be published to protect the statutory anonymity of the victim. The man was jailed for seven years for repeatedly sexually abusing his partner's teenage niece. He had pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault and one count of orally raping the child. The girl told the court that she was 13 when the defendant started "grooming" her. She said she has struggled with anxiety, depression, trauma, and flashbacks as a result of the abuse. Prosecuting counsel brought the case back before the Central Criminal Court seeking an "attachment order" in relation to contempt of court proceedings. The video post was viewed around 300 times but has since been taken down.
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.
The President of the High Court, Mr Justice David Barniville, has expressed concern over the increasing levels of violence and disruptive behavior directed at judges and court staff in Irish courts. He noted that judges are not immune to the psychological effects of hearing graphic evidence, particularly in sexual offense cases. He called for better support systems, including access to counseling, to help judges cope with the stress of their role. He highlighted incidents of judges being attacked, receiving death threats, and facing intimidation from litigants. Mr Justice Barniville emphasized that judges are human and should not be expected to endure such pressures without support. He also criticized the lack of legal protections against disruptive behavior and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals by unqualified legal advisors. A Wellbeing Strategic Action Plan aims to improve support for judges, including training on handling traumatic evidence and promoting a culture where seeking help is not seen as a weakness. He stressed the importance of public understanding of the judiciary's role to reduce stigma and improve respect for judges.
A 68-year-old man from Donegal, who was convicted of raping and abusing his sisters in the 1970s, was granted anonymity by the court due to a 'culpable delay' in the prosecution. The victims had waived their anonymity, but the court ruled that the defendant could not be named. The man was convicted of multiple counts of rape and indecent assault. His lawyers argued that the delay in prosecution had created a situation where the defendant would face serious public odium. The judge noted the victims' bravery and the long-term trauma they endured. She imposed a seven-year sentence for the rape offences and a two-year concurrent term for the sexual assault charges. The final year of the seven-year term was suspended on strict conditions. The unnamed 68-year-old pleaded not guilty.
X Internet Unlimited Company, the applicant, is challenging the Irish media watchdog Coimisiún na Meán in High Court judicial review proceedings. The case, heard before Mr Justice Cian Ferriter, concerns the Commission's decision to refer complaints, received under the EU's Digital Services Act, to its internal supervisory team for potential future investigation. X's counsel, Neil Steen SC, alleged the Commission was "kicking the can down the road," arguing that this internal referral unlawfully broadened the investigation and acted beyond the Commission's powers. X contended that the delay damages its reputation and that the Commission failed to make required pre-decision notifications. The Commission, represented by David Fennelly SC, denied these claims, asserting it has the broader power to appoint an authorised officer to investigate. In a related March ruling, the High Court awarded legal costs against X after it failed to obtain a stay order on the investigation. The judge noted that X understated the public interest in the orderly operation of the complaints process under the Digital Services Act and the Broadcasting Act 2009. X had argued that the ongoing investigation would cause serious and irreparable harm. The matter was adjourned and continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Ferriter.
An asylum applicant who claimed persecution by the Taliban had his refusal quashed after a judge found that inconsistencies in his knowledge of Afghanistan could be due to his young age when he made his application. The applicant, born in 2002, left Afghanistan in March 2021 and arrived in Ireland in October 2022. He applied for international protection, claiming refugee status due to persecution by the Taliban. During his application, he completed a questionnaire and was interviewed by an International Protection Officer (IPO) in January 2024. The IPO found inconsistencies in his account of his region, workplace, and geography, affecting his credibility. The applicant described houses in his village being burnt, but these descriptions were not consistent with external information, and documents he provided could not be verified. The IPO concluded he failed to provide sufficient detail. The applicant, now 24, challenged the decision in the High Court.
The High Court has quashed the assault conviction of Kevin Taylor, a former Garda from Longford, following a judicial review appeal. Taylor was originally convicted in Strokestown District Court in August 2021 of assaulting security staff member Ian Gordon during the execution of a possession order at Falsk, Strokestown, Co Roscommon, on December 11, 2018. The initial conviction resulted in a €200 fine. In March 2024, Taylor appealed to the Circuit Court, where he received a two-month custodial sentence. He subsequently sought a judicial review against the Director of Public Prosecutions, arguing that the prosecution failed to specify the precise factual basis of the alleged assault, violating fair procedure principles. Mr Justice Garrett Simons accepted that CCTV footage did not show Taylor grabbing Gordon's genitals, as alleged, though it did show him laying hands on him. The High Court judge found that the Circuit Court judge had undermined the effectiveness of cross-examination by taking over questioning, depriving Taylor of a fair opportunity to test the complainant's account. Furthermore, the trial judge failed to assess the reasonableness of the force used based on Taylor's asserted belief that he was protecting a disabled man. Mr Justice Simons quashed the conviction and determined it was not in the public interest to remit the matter, noting that Taylor had already served a two-month sentence for contempt in the same proceedings.
Peter 'Peadar' Keating, a former senior member of the Kinahan Cartel, appeared in the High Court in Dublin following an extradition warrant issued by the UK. Keating, 45, was sentenced in December 2024 at the Old Bailey to four years and eight months for his role in a failed plot to secure a reduced jail term for Thomas 'Bomber' Kavanagh by amassing a weapons arsenal. At the time, Keating was already serving an 11-year sentence in Ireland for directing the attempted murder of a rival Hutch gang member. The UK warrant, issued in November 2022, stated that firearms were sourced from the Netherlands as part of a scheme to demonstrate Kavanagh's cooperation. Kavanagh, a senior Kinahan drug trafficker, was jailed in England in March 2022 for 21 years for importing over £30M worth of drugs. Keating's legal team, led by Keith Spencer BL, highlighted significant issues in the case and applied for legal aid, which was granted. The matter was adjourned to July 8 for further proceedings. The unnamed man pleaded guilty.
Two married women have taken a High Court challenge over a decision by the Minister for Foreign Affairs to refuse an Irish passport for their son, who was born with the assistance of a UK fertility clinic. One of the applicants is an Irish citizen living in the UK in a lawful same-sex marriage and is the legal parent to her child, named as 'parent' on the birth certificate but not as mother. The other parent, who gave birth, is named as the mother. The applicants argue that the State does not recognise the parentage, parental rights, and family status of the Irish citizen for citizenship through descent. They seek a High Court declaration that the Irish applicant is the lawful parent to their child under Irish law and an order compelling the department to grant citizenship by descent to their child. The applicant was born in Northern Ireland and the couple engaged in shared motherhood IVF in the UK. The Department refused the passport based on its definition of 'parent'.
Pharma giant Johnson & Johnson has secured a €58,000 reduction in a High Court award of nearly €1 million made to former Limerick hurler Mark Keane, who was injured in 2018 while freeing a work colleague trapped in a machine at their plant in Co Limerick. The High Court awarded Keane €944,000 for injuries to his right hand, arm, and shoulder. Keane, an accomplished hurler, claimed he was 'let down' by the company. Johnson & Johnson accepted responsibility for the nerve damage and injury to his right hand but not for the injury to his right shoulder. The Court of Appeal reduced the payout to €886,000, citing a previous award for a 2014 road traffic incident and adjustments in Keane's expected future earnings. Johnson & Johnson argued that any loss of earnings was partially due to the 2014 accident, leading to a double counting. Keane alleged Johnson & Johnson was negligent and breached their duty of care on September 10, 2018, while he was working as a technician making contact lenses.
A Sligo man, Barry Young, has appeared in court in Dublin following an arrest warrant from Northern Ireland, where he is wanted for the murder of gangland figure Robbie Lawlor in 2020. Young, 41, faces charges of murder and possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life. He is the second individual to be brought before the extradition court as part of a joint Garda-PSNI investigation into Lawlor's murder. The PSNI believe Lawlor's murder was linked to a drugs feud involving criminal elements in Dublin, Sligo, and Drogheda. Detective Sergeant Aoife Cronin confirmed Young's identity based on the warrant and informed him of the charges. Young's legal team requested a video link appearance for the next court date, and he was remanded in custody until then.
A 22-year-old man charged with threatening to kill his former partner lost an appeal against a High Court decision that upheld a District Court judge's refusal to hear formal submissions from his solicitor before refusing him bail. The man was charged with assault causing harm, making threats to kill, and breaching a safety order in Wicklow on April 20, 2026. During his bail application in the District Court, he denied the allegations, leading to his remand in custody. His legal team argued that the District Court judge failed to hear his submissions, but the High Court upheld the remand. The Court of Appeal dismissed the habeas corpus appeal, stating that the issue was moot as the original order was spent within eight days. The High Court judge was entitled to conclude that the bail hearing was fair, and the appellant had the opportunity for a full hearing in the High Court. The appeal was dismissed, and the man remained in custody.
Trade unionist Brendan Ogle is pursuing a new case under workplace equality law against Unite after a disability discrimination action was dismissed by the Labour Court last year. A second statutory complaint by Mr Ogle under the Employment Equality Act 1998 against Unite the Union is listed for hearing at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) next week. The allegation at the centre of the complaint is understood to be one of workplace victimisation linked to Mr Ogle's disability discrimination case at the WRC in 2024. Mr Ogle had alleged in a complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998 that he was sidelined at work in summer 2022 after being treated for a "very aggressive" throat cancer, which saw him lose four and a half stone in weight while "living off fluids for six months". The WRC rejected the case following a 10-day hearing in Dublin, during which over a dozen witnesses gave evidence – including Mr Ogle and senior Unite officials based in Ireland and the UK.
Mr Justice Paul McDermott criticized the Law Society of Ireland for failing to inform the courts of the proposed withdrawal of legal aid work by solicitors, calling it 'highly discourteous'. The judge expressed disappointment that the court had not been notified of the action by solicitors or the Law Society. He emphasized the need for formal notification from a representative body, such as the Law Society, if such action was to be taken. The judge noted the potential impact on trials, including murder cases, jurors, and families. Solicitors were reportedly withdrawing services in a dispute over legal aid reforms involving solicitor fees. McDermott urged solicitors to inform the court in advance and not leave it to barristers to handle the situation. The comments were made ahead of the swearing in of a Central Criminal Court jury, with concerns that the trial may not proceed as scheduled.
A deafblind man, David Eccles, is challenging the refusal of legal aid by the Legal Aid Board in the High Court. He is seeking to pursue a discrimination claim against the HSE for not providing an Irish Sign Language interpreter to assist him in learning braille. Eccles has Usher Syndrome Type 1, which has caused him to lose his hearing and vision progressively. He relies on ISL to communicate and requires an interpreter to access braille training. The HSE's health contractor, Vision Ireland, refused to fund an interpreter, preventing Eccles from participating in the training. Eccles argues that this refusal constitutes direct discrimination under the Equal Status Act 2000 and the Constitution. He is unemployed and dependent on social welfare, making it impossible for him to afford legal representation. The High Court granted permission for the legal challenge, acknowledging the logistical difficulties faced by Eccles in pursuing the case. The matter is adjourned to July for further proceedings.
The Women of Honour CLG has initiated a High Court judicial review against Defence Minister Helen McEntee, Ireland, and the Attorney General, challenging the State's refusal to fund the group's legal teams for a tribunal investigating bullying, harassment, and sexual assault allegations within the Defence Forces. The group, represented by Mark Harty SC, argued that the State's decision creates a "fundamental inequality of arms" and "fundamental unfairness." They submitted that while the State and the Defence Forces, who are the subjects of the complaints, are fully funded, the complainants face potential cost denial despite being voluntary participants assisting the tribunal's fact-finding. Mr Harty contended that denying funding acts as a structural barrier to participation and renders the right to representation illusory, as witnesses may face reputational scrutiny. He further argued that the State cannot rely on tribunal limitations to avoid ensuring effective participation. The tribunal, which began this week, is scheduled to continue for 33 days. In her decision, Ms Justice Sara Phelan put all respondents on notice and adjourned the matter to appear before the judicial review list again at the High Court next week.
Jonathan Gill, accused of murdering Robbie Lawlor, has challenged his extradition to the UK, arguing that he would not receive the same legal protections in UK courts as he would in the European Union. His legal team highlighted that evidence from EncroChat, an encrypted messaging platform, may not be admissible in UK courts, unlike in the EU, where individuals can challenge the admissibility of such evidence through the Court of Justice of the European Union and the European Charter of Fundamental Rights. The UK, however, does not have the same protections, and Gill's legal team claims this would breach his fundamental rights. The Minister for Justice argued that EncroChat messages are admissible in both the EU and the UK, and that Gill has multiple avenues to challenge their use in UK courts, including through the European Court of Human Rights. The court has remanded Gill in custody ahead of a bail hearing, with a judgment on extradition to be delivered later.
Discrimination complaints against the organiser of a Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament have been dismissed by a Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator. The claims, brought under the Equal Status Act 2000 by Michail Michailidis, Makarios Michailidis, and Elena Arabova-Michailidis against Grappling Industries Corp, were thrown out after the hearing was disrupted by the claimant. The adjudicator, Michael McEntee, had to leave the room due to the disruptive and loud behaviour of Michail Michailidis, who was representing himself and the other complainants. Despite attempts by the adjudication officer and a representative from the Citizens' Advice Service to proceed, the hearing could not continue. A porter also intervened, asking Michail Michailidis to stop shouting as it was causing disturbance. The adjudicator had previously warned the claimants of potential termination of the case due to the disruptive conduct, but received no response. As a result, the adjudicator concluded that the case was not properly founded and therefore unsuccessful, citing a High Court ruling on the termination of similar cases for disruptive behaviour at hearings.
Raul Tabares Garcia, a Spanish national accused of conspiring to import drugs, has lost his appeal against a High Court ruling refusing him bail. At the Court of Appeal, Mr Justice Alexander Owens upheld the decision, stating the court saw no error in principle or law. Mr Garcia, of Cadiz, faces a charge of conspiring contrary to section 71 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006 to import drugs in excess of €13,000 between February 27 and March 14, 2024. He was one of ten men arrested in March 2024 during operations near Skibbereen, west Cork, where vehicles and nautical equipment were seized. Prosecutors alleged the group was involved in a transnational drug trafficking operation linked to 840kgs of cocaine valued at approximately €60 million. The High Court judge had previously deemed Mr Garcia a serious flight risk due to his foreign nationality and potential resources. Although his counsel argued he had local connections and proposed sureties, the Court of Appeal rejected these arguments, noting his lack of connection to the country. Seven co-accused, including Mario Angel Del Rio Sanz, Anuar Rahui Chairi, Aleksandar Milic, Kiumaars Ghabiri, Pedro Pablo Ojeda Ortega, and Angel Serran Padilla, have already pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges and were sentenced to a combined 70 years in prison last December. The matter was adjourned following the refusal of the bail application.
Lawyers for the University of Limerick (UL) have informed the High Court that there is no legal barrier to the university initiating a new investigation into former president Professor Kerstin Mey, who was previously alleged to have misled a Government finance committee. Prof Mey's legal team has argued that the allegation of misleading the Dáil Public Accounts Committee (PAC) cannot be revisited, as she has already been vindicated by a prior investigation and a settlement agreement has been reached. In response, UL's legal representatives stated that no absolute relief was granted to Prof Mey following the previous investigation and that the university is entitled to consider new evidence as it emerges. They also denied that the re-investigation is a pre-text for disciplinary action, insisting the university is acting in good faith. Prof Mey has applied for a High Court injunction to prevent the new investigation. She resigned as UL president in 2024 as part of the settlement agreement, following threats of disciplinary action over due diligence and adherence to policies during the purchase of a 20-house development in Rhebogue, Co Limerick. The university paid €12.5 million for the development, which was later valued at €6.5 million. Prof Mey's legal team has argued that the matter cannot be re-investigated due to the settlement agreement, while UL's legal representatives have stated that the settlement allows for the consideration of new evidence. The case is currently under review by the High Court, with the judge reserving her judgment on the matter.
The High Court heard arguments regarding an application by former University of Limerick (UL) president Professor Kerstin Mey for an injunction to prevent a new investigation into an allegation that she misled the Dáil Public Accounts Committee (PAC). Counsel Marcus Dowling SC, appearing with Christopher McMahon BL, argued before Ms Justice Marguerite Bolger that the matter cannot be revisited because Prof Mey was previously vindicated by a Special Disclosures Group investigation and the parties reached a settlement. This settlement, agreed in 2024, included her resignation from the presidency and a clause warranting no disciplinary action. The proposed re-investigation, initiated in May 2025, concerns alleged conflicting accounts regarding the non-attendance of UL's chief corporate officer, Andrew Flaherty, at a May 2023 PAC meeting. Prof Mey's affidavit states the initial investigation found no wrongdoing on her part. Counsel submitted that UL has no legal obligation to re-open settled matters and that the settlement was final. The hearing was adjourned to allow UL's counsel, Brian Kennedy SC, to address the court.
A grieving Garda sergeant, Sgt Laura Gaffey, has submitted a judicial review application to the High Court, alleging bullying and discrimination within An Garda Síochána following the death of her son. She claims that a superior officer made a discriminatory comment, stating, "I suppose you thought you would get a consolation prize for losing your son," after she applied for a new position following her child's death. Sgt Gaffey, who has 18 years of experience, alleges ongoing bullying by a supervising inspector since 2018, including criticism for taking maternity leave. She further claims that her complaints led to a data breach, with sensitive personal information being shared without her consent. Sgt Gaffey also alleges that she was intentionally undermined in her role, not provided with necessary equipment, and faced hostile treatment from another superior officer. Although an internal panel cleared the officer of bullying, Sgt Gaffey claims the process involved a breach of her privacy, including references to her mental health and the death of her son.
Supt O'Reilly, the applicant, appealed a November Dublin Circuit Civil Court decision to the High Court, where he alleged he was penalised by the Garda Commissioner's office after making protected disclosures regarding unsafe leather holsters. He claimed these defective holsters, supplied by a Kildare saddlery, allowed a pistol to be removed even when the retention strap was closed, potentially contributing to the accidental self-wounding of a Garda at the Israeli ambassador's residence in June 2020. Six days later, Stephen Silver murdered Gda Colm Horkan using the garda's own gun in Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Silver was sentenced in April 2023 to life imprisonment with a minimum time to be served of 40 years for murdering a Garda acting in the course of his duties. During the current High Court hearing, counsel for Supt O'Reilly raised a separate allegation that Supt Liam White shared a prohibited photograph taken inside a courtroom of Supt O'Reilly and three accompanying individuals. Mr Justice Micheál O'Higgins asked parties with knowledge to write to the court and stated he would review the relevant prohibitions. The matter was adjourned to May 19 for further submissions.
A tribunal has ruled that a collapsed security firm, Best Guard Security Services Ltd (BGSS), clearly racially discriminated against people of colour in its employment practices. The Workplace Relations Commission awarded over €8,000 to James Ajibola, a former employee, for various employment rights breaches. Ajibola was left in serious financial difficulty after working hundreds of hours without pay at shops in central Dublin. He was promised €14.50 an hour but never received any payment. Dozens of former BGSS staff have won similar claims, with the firm's liquidator noting 53 ex-workers faced similar treatment. Nicola Coleman of the Siptu Workers' Rights Centre highlighted that white Irish or European employees in supervisory roles were likely paid, while black and Asian workers were not. The tribunal found systematic wage exploitation, which Coleman described as a template for exploitation akin to modern slavery. Adjudicator Michael McEntee noted the firm's failure to comply with employment regulations and awarded Ajibola €4,720.46 in total. The liquidator has advised the WRC that the Employers' Insolvency Fund will be used to meet the claims.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to an extradition warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court. Mr Gill is wanted in Northern Ireland to face charges of murder in connection with the death of Robbie Lawlor in April 2020, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal team sought an adjournment of the bail hearing to review documentation from State bodies covering interactions spanning two decades, received late on the previous day. Counsel indicated she was unable to advise the court on the timeframe required for this review. Mr Justice Sean Gillane adjourned proceedings to 3 June, with liberty to apply for an earlier hearing. The extradition hearing is scheduled for the same date. The defence has raised concerns regarding the admissibility of proposed evidence under EU law provisions, despite its validity under United Kingdom law.
Irish air safety authorities reportedly showed no interest in an Aer Lingus pilot's concerns about alleged cabin air contamination, according to his legal team. However, within two weeks of the pilot raising the issue with the European Air Safety Authority (EASA), the airline grounded several planes in anticipation of an airworthiness directive. The pilot, Tom O'Riordan, claims he was unfairly dismissed after raising concerns about toxic fumes on a flight and suffered health issues as a result. The tribunal heard that the grounding of the planes was linked to potential damage to engine seals and gaskets. O'Riordan's legal team argues that he was penalized for whistleblowing, while the airline maintains there was no connection between the pilot's disclosure and the grounding of the planes. The case is ongoing, with the tribunal considering whether the pilot was unfairly dismissed and whether the airline's actions were influenced by his disclosures.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to extradition proceedings initiated by authorities in Northern Ireland. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in connection with the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal representatives submitted that extradition could prejudice his right to a fair trial, citing divergent interpretations of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and EU regarding the admissibility of encrypted phone data. The High Court rejected an application for additional senior counsel representation, with Mr Justice Sean Gillane finding the legal arguments sufficiently clear. Gill was remanded in custody pending a bail application on 6 May. The extradition hearing is scheduled for 3 June.
Two men, Vladislavs Temnis and Ik Joo Kang, were jailed for a combined 11 years after being caught with over €1 million in illicit cash days after arriving in Ireland. Both pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. The Dublin Crime Response Team discovered the cash in a rented Skoda vehicle and later in a hotel room. The men were found to be involved in a money laundering operation. Judge Orla Crowe considered mitigating factors, including their lack of previous convictions and their early guilty pleas. Temnis received a four-year sentence, while Kang was sentenced to seven years. Both were given credit for time served and had their sentences backdated. The court heard that Kang had no knowledge of the criminal nature of the job and felt it was suspicious upon seeing the cash.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with an extradition application by Northern Irish authorities. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, a 36-year-old man shot dead in Belfast on April 4, 2020. He faces charges on a joint enterprise basis and is also accused of possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5, 2020. The PSNI believe the killing was part of an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During proceedings before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's legal team sought to adjourn the bail application to renew a request for senior counsel. The counsel raised concerns regarding the lawfulness and admissibility of evidence, noting differing standards between European and UK courts. The judge remanded Gill in custody pending a renewed application for senior counsel on May 1. An extradition hearing is scheduled for June 3.
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.
Dave Gibney, a former press officer at the Mandate trade union, alleged that a leak by the union's general secretary, Gerry Light, scuppered a potential €1 million deal for Debenhams staff. The deal, proposed by KPMG, would have provided payments to Mandate members, saved 300 jobs, and included a one-third share in the profits of the stock sell-off. Gibney claimed that Light leaked the details to RTÉ, leading KPMG to withdraw the proposal. The leak was attributed to Light's conversation with RTÉ's Ingrid Miley, which resulted in the deal being abandoned. Gibney stated that the Debenhams team within Mandate was wrongly blamed for the collapse of the proposal. The following day, former Debenhams staff occupied stores, leading to KPMG blaming the occupations for the deal's failure. Gibney's allegations were part of a broader dispute involving the union and the Workplace Relations Commission. Lorna Langan, a Mandate member, is pursuing legal action against the union, citing protected disclosures and the financial impact of legal fees.
A member of the national executive of the trade union Mandate has had her suspension lifted by a High Court injunction, allowing her to stand for re-election. Lorna Langan claimed her suspension was due to her attempts to highlight alleged wrongdoing at the union. She argued that fair procedures were not followed, as she was not informed of the reasons for her suspension and was not given an opportunity to make representations. The High Court granted an interlocutory injunction, lifting the suspension and allowing her to participate in the election. The judge noted that Ms Langan had not been suspended in accordance with fair procedures and that she was eligible to contest the election as she was temporarily unfit for work due to medical reasons but had a job offer. The union had argued that Ms Langan was ineligible as she was unemployed, but the court ruled otherwise.
Jonathan Gill, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings sought by authorities in Northern Ireland. The 44-year-old is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for alleged possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol between 2 and 5 April that year. During today's hearing before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's barrister submitted that evidence proposed in the case would not be admissible under EU law, though it would be valid in UK courts. The judge scheduled a bail application for the following Wednesday, with Gill remanded in custody until that date. The extradition hearing has been fixed for 3 June. Gill was arrested on foot of a warrant issued by Belfast Magistrates' Court on 31 March.
Lorna Langan, a suspended member of the Mandate union's national executive, is seeking an injunction to allow her to stand for re-election. She claims her suspension was due to her highlighting wrongdoing within the union, over which a formal complaint has been made to gardaí. Langan alleges that the NEC was misled into approving an excessive redundancy payment for a staff member. She needs a decision on her application before the union's delegate conference. Her legal team argued that fair procedures were not followed, as she was not informed of the suspension reasons or given an appeal process. The union's legal representative countered that the urgency for the hearing was created by Langan herself. The case is set to be heard in the High Court, with the conference scheduled for Monday in Portlaoise.
An Air Corps corporal with almost 40 years of exceptional and meritorious service has been granted permission by the High Court to challenge a decision refusing his promotion to sergeant. Peter Dunne, 58, who is based at Casement-Baldonnel Aerodrome, Dublin, was refused the promotion on the basis there were no relevant vacancies for him to fill, despite the officer in charge of the Air Corps endorsing his promotion and recognising his 'selflessness' and commitment to the core values of the organisation. Mr Dunne joined the Defence Forces in 1988 and the Air Corps in 1989, and has distinguished service, including being a chef in the Corps and being promoted to corporal in 2005. He applied for promotion to sergeant on account of meritorious service and distinguished conduct, which was supported by testimonials from senior staff.
A 44-year-old man from Clontarf, Dublin appeared before the High Court in connection with extradition proceedings relating to a 2020 murder in Belfast. Jonathan Gill is wanted by the Police Service of Northern Ireland to face prosecution on a joint enterprise basis for the death of Robbie Lawlor, who was shot in the front garden of a house on Etna Drive on April 4, 2020. Mr Gill is also charged with possession of a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5 that year. The PSNI believes the killing was connected to an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During the hearing before Mr Justice Paul Burns, the court was told that Mr Gill's solicitor, based in Belfast, was unable to attend. The judge agreed to adjourn the matter and set April 24 as the date when an extradition hearing date will be fixed. Mr Gill remains in custody pending that hearing.
Veteran comedian Sil Fox, 94, failed in his attempt to have a jury hear his High Court claim for damages against the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), An Garda Síochána, and other state bodies. Fox, who was cleared of a sexual assault charge in 2020 due to inconsistencies in the complainant's evidence and CCTV footage, claims the prosecution destroyed his reputation and caused him emotional distress. His legal team argued that the DPP was guilty of a dereliction of duty and that the case should be heard by a jury due to its impact on public reputation. However, High Court judge Mr Justice Oisín Quinn ruled that the case was not suitable for a jury, citing the legal architecture of the case and the complexity of the issues involved. Fox's case will now be heard before a High Court judge only. The DPP's legal team argued that the prosecution was based on reasonable grounds, including the complainant's witness statement and CCTV footage. The judge concluded that the case was not appropriate for a jury and refused the application.
In a High Court sentencing hearing, Justice Karen O'Connor imposed a seven‑year prison term on a man convicted of raping a woman in Dublin on 18 December 2021. The judge described the victim's 999 call as "chilling" and noted the man's claim that the sexual act was consensual and his lack of remorse. The victim, who was intoxicated but not drunk, was assaulted while sleeping after a party and later reported the rape to Gardaí. She suffered physical injuries and long‑term psychological effects, including depression, nightmares and difficulty trusting others. The judge thanked her for her dignity during the trial and wished her and her family well. The defendant, a West African refugee, had been granted status in the UK and had been in gainful employment. The sentencing was back‑dated to the man's March 2023 custody entry. The judge's remarks highlighted the victim's vulnerability and the defendant's disrespectful conduct.
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.