Daragh Coyne was committed to Mountjoy prison by Mr Justice Anthony Barr after being found in contempt of High Court orders that prohibited him from interfering with lands designated as a National Heritage Area (NHA). The High Court had obtained injunctions from the National Parks and Wildlife Service preventing Coyne from carrying out any unauthorised works on or interfering with the NHA in Milltownpass Bog, Co. Westmeath. Coyne, who denied any wrongdoing, repeatedly challenged the court's jurisdiction and demanded to be called by his first name, but the judge insisted on addressing him as Mr Coyne or defendant. Coyne was given the opportunity to give a sworn undertaking to comply with the orders or face imprisonment; he refused, and the judge committed him to prison until he purges his contempt. The case will return to the court in four weeks.
Daragh Coyne, a defendant from Mullingar, Co Westmeath, appeared before the High Court on Wednesday following his arrest by gardai. He is alleged to be in contempt of court orders obtained by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), which prohibit him from interfering with Milltownpass Bog, a designated National Heritage Area. The NPWS claims Coyne failed to comply with an April injunction against unauthorised works and a subsequent order to remove a gate he erected on an old turf cutter's track. Sworn statements from two Park Rangers allege that turf was illegally cut and waste, including scrap metal, fuel, and invasive cherry laurel, was dumped on the site, damaging the NHA. They also noted turf-cutting equipment was stored nearby, despite Coyne denying its use. Coyne, who is unrepresented, told the court he did nothing wrong and objected to being addressed as "Mr Coyne," requesting to be called "Daragh." Justice Anthony Barr rejected this request for the hearing. Coyne claimed he had sent documents outlining his case to the court, but the judge stated there was no record of receipt. James O'Donnell BL, representing the NPWS, stated his client did not wish to see anyone jailed but had no alternative due to Coyne's failure to engage. In these circumstances, the judge adjourned the matter to Thursday's sitting, allowing Coyne to obtain copies of the documents setting out his position. The judge directed gardai to return Coyne to his home and bring him back to court, warning that the contempt hearing would proceed in his absence if he failed to return.
The High Court, under Mr Justice Tony O'Connor, issued injunctions against former HSE IT worker Mr Neill Bradley to prevent the distribution of highly confidential patient data he accessed during his employment with a third‑party IT contractor. Bradley allegedly posted screenshots of HSE servers on three Twitter accounts he controlled and threatened to release sensitive information to Wikileaks. The court orders bar Bradley and anyone who received the data from publishing, disseminating, or destroying it, and require him to hand over all documents and devices containing the information for forensic analysis. He is also restrained from leaving Ireland until he complies with the order and hands his passport to An Garda Síochana. The HSE's solicitors may notify relevant authorities of the injunctions. Bradley did not attend the hearings and has not yet presented a defence. The injunction remains pending a full hearing.
The High Court heard that the extradition of Liam Campbell, 58, from Ireland to Lithuania has been delayed for over ten years, a delay the court described as "shameful" and an "abuse of process". Campbell was arrested in December 2016 under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Lithuanian authorities, who allege he organised weapons smuggling for the Real IRA between late 2006 and early 2007. His barrister, Mr Remy Farrell SC, argued that the length of time the warrant has been in force and the risk of inhuman or degrading treatment in a Lithuanian prison justify a refusal of extradition. The court noted that the Lithuanian public prosecutor's independence had been questioned and that the Court of Justice of the EU had ruled the prosecutor can issue European Arrest Warrants. Mr Farrell also pointed out that the remand prison in Vilnius closed in July last year and that Campbell's bail had been pending for four years.
A couple and their teenage granddaughter, all EU nationals, have filed a judicial review against South Dublin County Council after the council refused them social housing supports. The council's refusal was based on a 2012 Housing Circular that requires applicants to prove 52 weeks of continuous employment in the State. The applicants argue that this requirement has no legal basis and that the council's reliance on it breaches their constitutional rights and the European Convention on Human Rights. They have lived in Ireland since 1998, with the granddaughter residing with them since infancy, and have applied for various payments since 2015. The High Court granted permission to proceed ex‑parte, and the case is scheduled for a hearing in July. The applicants seek an order quashing the council's March 11 decision and declarations that the decision is unlawful and unreasonable.
In a High Court case brought by Cape Wrath Hotel Unlimited Company, the owners of the Citywest Hotel complex have sued Glen Walker and Sarah Walker of Saggart Lakes, alleging that the Walkers began construction on a parcel of land that the hotel claims was part of its former Executive Golf Course. The disputed land is less than 100 square metres, and the hotel says the Walkers have no rights to it. The Walkers reportedly started work with an excavator last month, and the hotel has asked them to stop, but they have not complied. The hotel seeks declarations that it is the beneficial owner of the land, that the Walkers have no interest, and an injunction to prevent further trespassing or works. The case was heard ex‑parte by Justice Mary Rose Gearty, who allowed the hotel to serve notice and adjourned the matter for a hearing next week.
A man named Mr Daragh Coyne is alleged to have breached a court order prohibiting interference with lands designated as a National Heritage Area (NHA) in Milltownpass Bog, Co. Westmeath. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) claims that Mr Coyne has carried out activities that damaged the NHA, including dumping waste material such as scrap metal, fuel, and gardening waste, and illegally cutting turf. The NPWS also alleges that he failed to remove a gate he erected on an old turf‑cutters track on Minister‑owned land. Mr Coyne denies any wrongdoing. The High Court, hearing the case before Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty, directed that he be attached and brought before the court by Gardaí next week to answer the contempt claim. If found in contempt, he faces the prospect of imprisonment.
In a High Court ruling on 5 June 2020, Mr Justice Charles Meenan ordered Gemma O'Doherty and John Waters to pay the legal costs of the State respondents and notice parties for the two‑day hearing of their application to challenge Covid‑19 laws. The judge said the costs, estimated at a substantial five‑figure sum, were limited to that hearing. The court had previously refused to grant them permission for a full hearing of the High Court. O'Doherty and Waters, who claimed the laws were unconstitutional and brought the action in the public interest, are appealing the dismissal to the Court of Appeal. The judge dismissed their arguments for a protective costs order and for not being penalised because the action was in the public interest, stating they had not engaged meaningfully with the respondents' case and had not provided expert evidence to support their claims of disproportionate or unconstitutional laws.
In a High Court ruling on 3 June 2020, Justice Mary Rose Gearty ordered Gerard O'Sullivan and his niece, Fiona O'Brien, to vacate the apartment at Rosebank Place, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 immediately. The apartment is owned by Davy Platform ICAV, an asset‑management fund that provides social housing. O'Sullivan, who claims to be the former owner, denied trespassing and alleged a fraudulent transfer of the property in 2006, but no evidence of fraud was presented. The court found that O'Sullivan had entered the property without consent, changed the locks, and threatened to use his German Shepherd against anyone attempting to enter on the fund's behalf. The injunction remains pending a full hearing, and O'Sullivan and O'Brien were ordered to pay the fund's legal costs. The judge emphasised that the respondents had no right to remain on the property.
In a High Court case, Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted an injunction to protect the main access route to O'Flaherty's Limited, trading as Reads, from Dublin's Nassau Street. The injunction, pending a full hearing, prevents Setanta Centre Unlimited Company from obstructing access with scaffolding and hoarding as part of a €150m redevelopment. O'Flaherty's, with four years left on its lease, argued that the obstruction breached its property rights and would damage its business, especially given its proximity to Trinity College. The defendant, owned by Larry Goodman's family, denied the breach, claimed it could use an alternative route via Setanta Place, and offered to fund improvements there. Justice Gearty noted the need for certainty for leaseholders and the importance of protecting access rights over commercial interests, and she found the injunction warranted. The case will return for final orders later this week.
The High Court ordered the HSE to detain and admit a mentally ill man, aged in his fifties, to a hospital for medical treatment. The man, whose identity is withheld, has a history of psychiatric care and violent outbursts, and is considered a risk to family, women and vulnerable people. He has been diagnosed with emotional instability and Factitious Disorder, and reports hearing voices that urge him to harm others. After being released from a voluntary hospital placement, he lived in appalling squalor, covered in urine and feces, with his skin in a condition that could lead to sepsis. He refused cooperation with medical professionals, stating "If I die, I die." The HSE sought orders to detain him and make him a Ward of Court, while a guardian-at-litem and independent medical visitor were appointed to assess his capacity. The matter was adjourned to early next month. The unnamed man was convicted.
John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty have announced they will appeal the High Court's refusal to grant them leave to challenge pandemic laws. The High Court heard their intention to appeal Justice Charles Meenan's decision during arguments about who should pay legal costs, including the State, the Minister for Health and the notice parties. Both applicants argued that the High Court should not order them to pay the State's costs or those of the notice parties, claiming their action was brought in the public interest. The State's counsel said the applicants should pay their costs and rejected the public‑interest argument, noting the regulations were introduced to protect life and public health. The applicants' submissions were rejected as lacking expert evidence, and the judge described the case as unstateable, dismissing the application for leave to appeal. The applicants plan to appeal to the Court of Appeal.
An injunction application by the owner of the printing business Reads, operating a retail outlet on Nassau Street, has been presented to the High Court. Reads, trading as O'Flaherty's (Nassau St) Limited, seeks orders against Setanta Centre Unlimited Company, the landlord of the building in which its premises are located. The landlord is redeveloping the building at a cost of €150m over two years. Reads alleges that the landlord has arranged a temporary access route for customers but now intends to erect hoarding that would block that route, rendering the premises inaccessible. The landlord denies the allegations, claiming it has accommodated the applicant and that the obstruction is for health and safety reasons. The injunction would remain pending the full hearing of the dispute. The case is before Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty.
Four men were arrested and brought before the High Court for alleged contempt of court orders to vacate repossessed properties at Fairview Avenue, Dublin 3. The properties, acquired by businessman Jerry Beades in 2002, are subject to lengthy proceedings. Everyday Finance DAC, which holds the loans, obtained orders in November 2019 for vacant possession by January 31. In March, the company alleged persons remained in breach. Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds heard the cases of Eamon Hunt, Dean Gilroy, and Polish tradesmen Aleksander Jerzy Wianowski and Michal Grochowicki. Mr Hunt, who had lodged an appeal with the Court of Appeal that was refused a stay, admitted he was aware of the deadline. Mr Gilroy stated he had lived there since February. The two tradesmen, who claimed ignorance of the legal issues, were found in dilapidated conditions. After the judge outlined the seriousness of the situation and the possibility of incarceration, all four men gave sworn undertakings not to return to the properties. Arrangements were made for the return of their personal belongings, and the tradesmen were relocated to Co Meath. The matter was effectively resolved through these undertakings. Separate contempt proceedings against Mr Beades, who denies breaching orders, were previously adjourned due to the pandemic and will return before the court at a later date.
Lawyers informed a High Court judge that the State intends to conduct a single trial for six women and five men accused of multiple offences involving alleged sexual abuse and neglect of children. The 11 defendants, aged between 25 and 76, face more than 200 charges, including sexual assault, sexual exploitation and child cruelty and neglect under Section 246 of the Children Act 2001. The alleged victims are all juveniles, and the offences are said to have occurred at various locations in Limerick between 2014 and 2016. The defendants, who have addresses in several Munster counties, were arrested and charged earlier last year, and books of evidence were served on them at a District Court sitting in November. The case was listed for mention in the Central Criminal Court, where Mr Justice Paul McDermott heard applications concerning disclosure of material by the prosecution to the defence teams.
John Slattery, aged 30 and known as John Flynn, was arrested early in the morning by 20 armed Gardaí in Limerick and extradited to the United States to face three wildlife‑trafficking charges. The High Court heard that Slattery had been on bail, which was due to expire at midnight, and that he had agreed to surrender himself to U.S. authorities. U.S. prosecutors allege that Slattery and two others purchased rhino horns in Austin, Texas, for €18,000, then sold them in New York for €50,000, using a Texas "straw buyer" because they were not local residents. They also allegedly bought two more horns in 2010 for €10,000 and acquired a consignment of horns at an auction in Macon, Missouri. Slattery had spent nine months in remand before being granted bail in April, with a €10,000 bond lodged.
In a trial for the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe, Judge Michael White requested the High Court president extend daily sittings beyond the usual two‑hour limit due to Covid‑19 concerns. He informed the jury that a direction had been received preventing the trial from exceeding two hours per day, and he is awaiting approval for an extension. The jury, consisting of six men and seven women, heard cross‑examination of Detective Garda Gareth Kenna, who presented a CCTV montage of vehicles in County Louth around the time of the robbery and shooting. Kenna explained that the montage included footage of a Volkswagen Polo stolen from Clogherhead and a dark‑toned saloon resembling a 5‑Series BMW with fog lights. He clarified that fog lights are common and that a distinct roof texture is not unique. The trial continues under Judge White. Adrian Donohoe pleaded not guilty.
A High Court dispute between Oxigen Environmental and former rugby star Shane Byrne and his brother William regarding the operation of AWD Waste Solutions Ltd has been resolved. The parties informed Mr Justice Michael Quinn that all matters were settled, leading to the striking out of the proceedings. Counsel for Oxigen, Martin Hayden SC, stated that discussions had been fruitful and requested that previous court orders be vacated. Richard Kean SC, representing the brothers, expressed gratitude to the court and noted their delight that the proceedings had concluded. Mr Justice Quinn welcomed the settlement and struck out the actions. Revenue, which was on notice, had no objection. No settlement details were disclosed in open court. The dispute, which commenced under the Companies Act, involved Oxigen's allegations that the brothers, who held a 49% shareholding, mismanaged the company's affairs. Oxigen claimed books and records were destroyed, monies were missing, and cash payments were improperly invoiced. It also alleged the brothers used company funds for personal expenses and sought to buy out their shares. Additionally, Oxigen claimed the company was insolvent and sought a provisional liquidator. The brothers strongly denied all allegations of wrongdoing, asserting the company was solvent and that the legal actions were an attempt to force them to sell their shares and damage their reputations. The matter was adjourned and struck out following the reported resolution.
The High Court is hearing a judicial review application brought by the State against the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Justice over the renewal of an Irish passport for a seven‑year‑old boy, Abdul Malik Bekmirzaev, who is currently in Belarus with his mother. The case is described as complex because it involves the 2010 naturalisation of the boy's father, Alexandr Bekmirzaev, who is alleged to have fought for ISIS in Syria. The boy and his mother were deported from a Turkish refugee camp to Belarus in January and now seek to return to Ireland, citing concerns about the Belarusian government's handling of the Covid‑19 pandemic. The boy's legal team claims the passport is being withheld because the Minister for Justice intends to revoke his father's Irish citizenship, arguing that the father's 2001 marriage to a woman believed to be a British national was a convenience that enabled his naturalisation.
In a High Court hearing on 18 May 2020, Mr Justice Paul Burns dismissed two letters from French authorities that sought access to Ian Bailey's legal submissions regarding his extradition. The judge ruled the correspondence was not from the Issuing Judicial Authority and therefore irrelevant to the proceedings, describing the request as "a storm in a teacup." Bailey, 63, faces a 25‑year sentence for the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier and is scheduled to contest the extradition on 15 July. Counsel for the Minister, Robert Barron SC, noted the State had brought the letters to the court's attention, while Bailey's solicitor, Ronan Munro SC, argued the request was non‑justiciable and outside statutory procedure. Mr Justice Burns emphasised that proper communication should have been with the Issuing Judicial Authority, and the court would treat the letters as a matter of caution until further instruction.
The Davy Platform ICAV, a fund that acquires social housing for public bodies, brought a High Court action against Mr Gerard O'Sullivan, alleging that he unlawfully re‑entered and is trespassing on an apartment at Rosebank Place, Clondalkin, which the fund purchased for €173,000 in October 2018. O'Sullivan denies wrongdoing, claiming ownership of the property and that the fund's purchase was illegal. He also claims that Ms Fiona O'Brien, believed to be his niece, is residing there under a lease granted by him. The fund seeks an injunction compelling the defendants to vacate the property and cease trespassing. The case was heard by Mr Justice Senan Allen, who adjourned the matter for a week to allow O'Sullivan to formally reply to the fund's claims. The injunction application is urgent, and the court noted that Ms O'Brien must attend the hearing or obtain legal representation to be heard.
A Dublin man, Mr Ryan Byrne of St Teresa's Road Crumlin, has filed a High Court judicial review against the Garda Commissioner and the Superintendent of Enniscorthy Garda Station. The challenge concerns the seizure and continued retention of his car following his arrest on 16 April for an alleged false imprisonment charge. Byrne was released from Crumlin Station on 17 April, but his vehicle was seized as part of the investigation, which the court says is being conducted by Gardai in Co Wexford. He was told he could retrieve the car on 18 April, but upon returning he was informed that release required a Garda Sergeant from Gorey, Co Wexford. Byrne's solicitor, Mr Tony Collier, has requested the car's return, but it remains in Dublin. Byrne, who is unemployed, argues the car is essential for family reasons, particularly to obtain medicine for his asthmatic son amid the Covid‑19 pandemic.
In an appeal regarding the Essex migrant deaths, the Court of Appeal reserved judgment on Eamon Ronald Harrison's challenge to his extradition warrant. Harrison, of Mayobridge, Co Down, is alleged to have delivered the trailer containing the 39 deceased migrants to a Belgian port. He faces 39 counts of manslaughter and conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration. Separately, Maurice Robinson, of Craigavon, Co Armagh, admitted to 39 counts of manslaughter at the Old Bailey. He had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and acquiring criminal property, specifically cash, while denying a further charge of transferring criminal property. Robinson awaits sentencing. Meanwhile, Ronan Hughes, a Monaghan haulier alleged to be the ringleader, is fighting his proposed extradition in the High Court. Counsel for the Minister for Justice dismissed arguments that the offences were extraterritorial, describing the submission as a "red herring" and asserting the crimes occurred within UK territory. Hughes, who faces 39 manslaughter charges and one conspiracy count, was remanded in custody until June 12 for a judgment. The State argued that the UK clearly asserted jurisdiction over acts committed within its borders, including the conspiracy and the deaths of the migrants.
The Dublin printing firm Reads, operated by O'Flaherty's (Nassau St) Limited, has filed a High Court action against Setanta Centre Unlimited Company, the owner of the Setanta Centre on Nassau Street, over access to its premises. Reads claims that the defendant, controlled by the Goodman family, has blocked the entrance to Nassau Street during redevelopment works, despite a prior agreement to provide a temporary access route. The plaintiff alleges that the obstruction, which it says will render its premises inaccessible, breaches its right of way and threatens its business and employment. Reads seeks an injunction to remove the obstruction. The defendant, represented by Rossa Fanning SC, denies wrongdoing, stating it has complied with health and safety advice and has informed the plaintiff of its redevelopment plans.
A seven‑year‑old Irish citizen, Abdul Malik Bekmirzaev, currently in Belarus, has brought a High Court challenge to have his passport renewed after the Turkish authorities confiscated it. The boy's father, Alexandr Bekmirzaev, who became a naturalised Irish citizen in 2010, allegedly fought for ISIS in Syria and is now believed to be dead. Abdul's mother, Iryna Paltarzhytskaya, a Belarusian citizen, was deported to Belarus from a Turkish refugee camp earlier this year. The boy's legal team argues that the Minister for Foreign Affairs has unlawfully delayed the passport renewal, thereby infringing Abdul's rights as an Irish citizen. They also seek to prevent the Minister for Justice from revoking the father's citizenship, which could retroactively affect Abdul's status. The court granted permission to proceed and set a hearing for the following week.
Aaron Tyrell, 19, of Woodhazel Close, Ballymun, was granted bail by the High Court after being charged with four counts of breaching the Health (Preservation and Protection and other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest) Bill 2020. The charges stem from alleged movements on 8 April, 13 April and 21 April, when he was seen at the Omni Shopping Centre and elsewhere. Tyrell denies the charges and claims he was within the 2km radius allowed by the law. He lives in a house where two occupants tested positive for COVID‑19. The court noted the seriousness of the alleged breaches and imposed a €200 surety bond, a curfew from 10 pm to 8 am, and warned that any violation would lead to revocation of bail. The case remains at the bail stage with no further proceedings reported.
An elderly man in his late seventies, whose identity is withheld for legal reasons, has filed a High Court challenge to stop his trial for more than 350 charges of sexually abusing four nephews between 1967 and 1984. The alleged assaults took place in and around his family home on the Western seaboard while the victims were minors on holiday. He denies the allegations and argues he will not receive a fair trial because of prosecutorial delay, his poor health, cognitive difficulties, and the deaths of potential witnesses such as his parents. His counsel noted that the allegations were discussed within the family in the early 1990s and 2002, but no complaint was made until 2016, and that evidence that would have been available earlier is now lost. In judicial review proceedings against the DPP, he seeks orders to prohibit the trial and a declaration that exceptional circumstances make a trial unfair.
A High Court hearing on 12 May 2020 reported that a Garda investigation file is being prepared against Conor Freeman, a 20‑year‑old Dublin man, who is wanted in the United States for alleged hacking theft of more than $2 million in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. Freeman was arrested in May 2019 on a US warrant for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, four counts of aiding and abetting wire fraud and four counts of aiding and abetting aggravated identity theft. US authorities allege that Freeman, part of an online group called "The Community", participated in four attacks that stole $2,187,977 in cryptocurrency between February and May 2018. The US indictment, issued by a Grand Jury in Michigan, also cites a "SIM hijacking" technique used to steal identities and gain control of victims' mobile numbers and accounts.
In a High Court hearing, French authorities requested to view Ian Bailey's legal submissions regarding his extradition to France for the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Bailey faces a 25‑year sentence in France and will contest the extradition at a three‑day hearing scheduled for July 15. His counsel, Ronan Munro, said the submissions are about 40 pages and will be finalised in two weeks. French officials sent letters on March 18 and April 14 requesting the documents, a move Munro described as unprecedented and outside normal statutory procedure. The Minister for Justice will not release the submissions without a court ruling. Bailey, who denies involvement, is remanded on bail and will not attend the next court session. The case follows two prior French extradition attempts that were dismissed in 2012 and 2017. The hearing will address whether the French request is permissible under Irish law. The unnamed 63-year-old was convicted.
Pat O'Donnell and Company, a plant machinery supplier, has filed a High Court challenge against Dublin City Council's decision to rezone land at Chapelizod Bypass/Kylemore Road from industrial to mixed commercial and residential use. The company argues the council's variation of its development plan is flawed, was made without proper hearing, and lacks adequate reasons. It claims the change from industrial to mixed use is not a minor modification and that the council failed to comply with EU law by not conducting an Appropriate Assessment or Strategic Environmental Assessment. The company seeks an order quashing the rezoning, declarations that the decision was unlawful and breached the 2000 Planning and Development Act, and fair procedure. Uniphar Group Plc, which owns part of the land, is a notice party. Mr Justice Michael Twomey granted permission ex‑parte and stayed the council's decision pending further court orders. The case will return to court next month.
The High Court heard that Mr Daragh Coyne of Coralstown, Mullingar, has allegedly dumped waste material, including scrap metal, fuel, and large plastic oil tanks, and illegally cut turf on Milltownpass Bog in Co. Westmeath, a National Heritage Area (NHA). The National Parks and Wildlife Service, represented by the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, brought proceedings after Park Rangers found a dozen subsoil mounds containing invasive cherry laurel, scrap metal and oil tanks. The rangers said the dumping damaged the NHA by reducing habitat for protected birds and pollinators. They also expressed concern that turf would be extracted, noting that Mr Coyne had engaged a contractor to cut turf on the NHA in 2019 and might do so again in 2020. Mr Coyne denies wrongdoing.
John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty filed a High Court judicial review challenging Covid‑19 legislation, arguing it was unconstitutional and flawed. They sought the court to quash the laws and declare them unconstitutional. The State, represented by lawyers for the Dáil, Seanad and Ceann Comhairle, opposed the action, claiming procedural flaws, lack of standing, and that the challenge should have been brought by a plenary hearing. The applicants cited the 2020 Health Preservation and Protection and Other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, the 2020 Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act Covid‑19 Act and the 1947 Health Act (Affected Areas) Order, and temporary restrictions under the 1947 Act. They alleged the measures violated constitutional rights to travel, bodily integrity and family life, describing the situation as akin to martial law and a coup. The judge reserved his decision, stating the case was "doomed" on several grounds. The proceedings remain pending.
John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty have applied to the High Court to challenge a range of Covid‑19 laws, arguing that they amount to an "effective suspension" of constitutional rights. They contend that the legislation, enacted in response to the pandemic, violates articles covering travel, bodily integrity and the family, and that it keeps people confined to their homes, closing parks and beaches. Waters cites Lord Sumption's comparison of the restrictions to those of World War II and warns of an economic downturn akin to 1929. O'Doherty, a journalist, claims the laws grant Gardai powers to harass citizens and liken the restrictions to "living in Nazi Germany," arguing they are scientifically fraudulent and harm health by limiting vitamin D.
In a High Court hearing on 1 May 2020, Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds confirmed the appointment of joint liquidators Ken Tyrell and Declan McDonald of PWC to LauraAshley Ireland Ltd, a subsidiary of the Irish arm of the fashion retailer Laura Ashley that employed over 70 people. The Irish company had been seeking liquidation after its UK parent entered administration following the Covid‑19 pandemic, which ended a proposed sales process and left the Irish firm without further financial support. The company's balance sheet showed a deficit of more than €563,000, and it had liabilities of €3.3 million, 80 % of which were owed to other group companies. The court noted that the US investment firm Gordon Brothers had acquired the Laura Ashley brand in administration and was conducting due diligence to streamline the business in Ireland and the UK, raising the possibility that some Irish stores and jobs might be retained.
Christopher Connolly, a dog handler from Cappawhite, Co. Tipperary, appealed a High Court decision that upheld a ban by the Irish Greyhound Board (Bord na gCon) and the Irish Coursing Club (ICC) preventing him from participating in racetrack or coursing events. The appeal was dismissed by a three‑judge Court of Appeal. Connolly's ban stemmed from an incident in 2014 while he lived in Australia, where he used a live piglet as bait at Tooradin Trial Track. Australian authorities had imposed a lifetime ban, later reduced to five years with a suspended five‑year period. Connolly returned to Ireland in 2015, applied for a Kennelhand Authorisation, was refused, and his appeal to the board's control committee was rejected. The Court of Appeal found that Connolly had been fully informed of the board's investigation and had no right to challenge the findings, concluding that the exclusion order was justified and lawful.
The Court of Appeal granted leave to appeal to Eamon Ronald Harrison, who is pending extradition to the UK to face 39 counts of manslaughter and one count of conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration. UK authorities have withdrawn a separate charge of conspiracy to commit human trafficking against Harrison, which is expected to shorten his appeal hearing scheduled for May 7. In a related development, Maurice Robinson, 25, of Craigavon, Co Armagh, admitted 39 counts of manslaughter at the Old Bailey in London. He had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and acquiring criminal property, while denying a further charge of transferring criminal property. Robinson will be sentenced at a later date. These proceedings follow the discovery of 39 migrants dead in a lorry container in Essex. Ronan Hughes, alleged to be the ringleader, was refused bail by the High Court and remanded in custody until May 15 for his full extradition hearing. The court found him a probable flight risk, noting his international haulage business and access to funds. The High Court judge stated that the prosecution met the burden of proof regarding the risk of absconding, despite Hughes' ties to the jurisdiction.
The High Court has adjourned proceedings concerning AWD Waste Solutions Ltd to allow parties to continue advanced settlement discussions. Oxigen Environmental, the applicant, brought the matter under the Companies Act, alleging concerns over the conduct of the company's affairs. Oxigen claims that books and records were removed or destroyed, monies may be missing, and cash payments were made improperly. It further alleges that septic tank jobs invoiced at €250 were charged at one cent, leaving cash unaccounted for, and that company monies were used for personal expenses. Oxigen also claims AWD is insolvent with debts exceeding €490,000 and sought the appointment of a provisional liquidator. The respondents, Shane Byrne and his brother William, deny all wrongdoing, stating the actions are intended to force them to sell their 49% shareholding and damage their reputations. They assert the company is solvent. The brothers indicated they were prepared to offer €1.5m for Oxigen's 51% stake. Additionally, Oxigen had withdrawn the waste permit held by AWD following a €500 fine for a breach of conditions, a move the brothers described as an attempt to strangle the business. Following talks, the permit was reinstated. Mr Justice Michael Quinn agreed to adjourn the application to appoint a provisional liquidator to Wednesday of next week to allow the settlement talks to proceed.
An application by John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty for permission to challenge legislation enacted during the Covid-19 pandemic was mentioned before the High Court on Tuesday. The applicants seek to quash various laws, including the 2020 Health Preservation and Protection and Other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, the 2020 Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act (Covid-19) Act, and the 1947 Health Act (Affected Areas) Order. The State, represented by Patrick McCann SC, opposes the application, arguing the claims are not arguable. Francis Kieran BL, representing the Dáil, Seanad, and Ceann Comhairle as notice parties, also opposed granting leave. Mr Justice Charles Meenan declined to grant permission at this stage, stating the applicants must prove the threshold for leave has been crossed. The judge suggested adjourning the hearing to allow applicants time to review responses from the State and notice parties. Mr Waters preferred the case proceed as scheduled on May 5th, describing it as one of the most important in Irish history, but agreed it could be delayed to Wednesday if necessary. The applicants also raised concerns about public access to courts, alleging breaches of constitutional requirements. Mr Justice Meenan rejected these claims, confirming the proceedings were held in public in accordance with Article 34 of the Constitution, with media present to report on the case.
Mr Justice Paul Burns is scheduled to deliver a decision tomorrow at 10:30 am on bail applications for Luke O'Reilly (66) and Darren Redmond (25), who are charged with false imprisonment and assault causing serious harm to Quinn Industrial Holdings Director Kevin Lunney. The alleged offences occurred on September 17, 2019, at Drumbrade, Ballinagh, Co Cavan. The State opposed bail, citing risks of interference with justice and flight, while defence counsel argued there was no evidential basis for refusal. Both men were sent forward for trial to the Special Criminal Court on March 26, with proceedings potentially beginning in January 2021. Separately, Alan O'Brien (39), of East Wall, is also charged with false imprisonment and assault causing serious harm to Mr Lunney on the same occasion. A fourth accused, who cannot be named for legal reasons, faces similar charges. All four men are to be tried at the non-jury Special Criminal Court. Last week, Mr Justice Tony Hunt indicated the trial could last eight to 12 weeks and transferred the case to Court 2 for a mention on June 10. The current procedural stage involves the pending bail determination for O'Reilly and Redmond, while the broader case remains in pre-trial preparation.
Barry Callan, acting as solicitor for a special needs teenager, brought two High Court judicial review actions challenging the teen's expulsion from an ETB-run secondary school for allegedly assaulting a teacher. The teen, who cannot be named, is represented by his mother and claims the school failed to provide necessary supports, a view shared by the HSE and the National Council for Special Education. The expulsion was upheld by the ETB and a Section 29 Committee. Counsel Derek Shortall BL argued the ETB breached fair procedures by limiting its appeal review rather than conducting a full rehearing and failing to consider the student's specific needs. The first action seeks to quash the ETB's decision and declare a breach of fair procedures. The second action challenges the Section 29 Committee's decision as flawed and disproportionate. Mr Justice Michael Twomey granted permission to bring the challenge against the Minister and the ETB on an ex-parte basis. He also deemed the second judicial review action opened and adjourned it generally. Both cases were adjourned to a date next month. The matter was adjourned and not concluded.
In April 2020, Mr Justice Denis McDonald, presiding over the High Court's fast‑track Strategic Infrastructure Development list, urged parties to shorten the time it takes the court to hear disputes amid the Covid‑19 pandemic. The list covers challenges to decisions by An Bord Pleanala on large infrastructure projects that were submitted directly by developers, bypassing local authorities. McDonald noted uncertainty about when hearing dates could be fixed, citing the pandemic's impact. He highlighted cases including Mr John Conway and the Louth Environmental Group's challenge to An Bord Pleanala's approval of 657 apartments for Crekav Trading GP Ltd near St Paul's College, Raheny, and a residents association and Protect Meath East NGO's challenge to Trailford Ltd's development of 661 units, a community centre and creche at Rathmullen, Drogheda.
The State will oppose a High Court challenge by John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty to Covid‑19 laws. The applicants claim the legislation is flawed and unconstitutional and seek to have it declared null and void. They target the 2020 Health Preservation and Protection and Other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, the 2020 Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act Covid‑19 Act, and the 1947 Health Act (Affected Areas) Order, as well as temporary restriction regulations under the 1947 Act. The challenge is directed at the Minister for Health, Ireland and the Attorney General. The High Court has scheduled a leave hearing for the challenge, with the court directing that the matter be listed for mention in two weeks. The State's counsel will oppose the application for leave and requests an adjournment to prepare a sworn statement. The applicants argue the State is delaying the hearing and that the case should be heard promptly.
A Monaghan man, Ronan Hughes, has appeared before the High Court in Dublin as part of an ongoing appeal related to his alleged involvement in the Essex migrant tragedy. Hughes, who is wanted in the UK on 39 counts of manslaughter and one count of conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration, admitted to the charges during the hearing. He was remanded in custody until a later date. Maurice Robinson, who previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration and acquiring criminal property, admitted 39 counts of manslaughter at the Old Bailey and will be sentenced at a later date. The case is currently in the appeal stage, with the court provisionally fixing April 29 for a bail application and May 1 for the full extradition hearing. The matter was adjourned and not finalised. The court heard that the sealed refrigeration unit was not turned on, leading to the deaths of 39 migrants due to oxygen starvation. Four other men are set to stand trial at the Old Bailey in connection with the investigation.
Petronel Pal, a 36‑year‑old Romanian, was arrested in Dublin in 2019 and faces extradition to Romania for alleged involvement in the murder of fellow Romanian Virgil Busa, who was violently assaulted on 10 April 2014 at Academy Square, Navan, and died three days later. Pal and other identified individuals are accused of forming an organised crime group, allegedly headed by a relative of Pal, and of breaking into Busa's apartment in the early hours of the murder date. The High Court, presided over by Mr Justice Paul McDermott, granted Pal a certificate to appeal the proposed surrender to Romanian authorities but refused a bail application. Pal's lawyers argued that the case raises a point of law of exceptional public importance, questioning whether the High Court correctly applied extraterritoriality principles and whether it is permissible to prosecute individuals for crimes committed in other EU Member States. The appeal will be heard by the Court of Appeal.
John Slattery, a 30‑year‑old Limerick man who has changed his name to John Flynn, was granted bail by the High Court while awaiting extradition to the United States on allegations of wildlife trafficking. Slattery is accused of three offences in the US involving the purchase and sale of endangered black rhino horn. US authorities claim he and two others bought horns for $18,000 in Austin, Texas, then sold them for $50,000 in New York, and later bought additional horns for $10,000 between April and November 2010. They also allege that in early 2011 six horns were sold for $260,000 at an auction in Macon, Missouri. Slattery has spent about nine months in custody and has consented to extradition, but the Covid‑19 crisis has delayed the handover.
In a High Court case, environmental activist Peter Sweetman successfully challenged the State's decision to remove protections for the freshwater pearl mussel from the Munster Blackwater Special Area of Conservation. Sweetman sought to quash any legislation or administrative act that would remove the species as a "qualifying interest" and also to invalidate the 2018 EU Environmental Objectives (Freshwater Pearl Mussel Amendment) Regulations issued by the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. He argued that the regulations breached EU directives, including the Habitats Directive, by eliminating obligations such as setting ecological quality objectives for the entire Blackwater river, enforcing emission limits for discharges, and investigating pressure sources on the mussels. The court granted Sweetman permission to proceed, agreed to quash the statutory instrument on the basis of a breach of the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive, and ordered the State to pay his legal costs. The orders were formally perfected by Mr Justice Charles Meenan.
In a High Court hearing on 2 April 2020, Mr Justice Tony Hunt refused to grant bail to a Dublin man convicted of raping his 10‑year‑old daughter in 2010. The defendant, whose name is withheld to protect the victim, had been remanded into custody after a jury found him guilty on multiple counts of sexual assault and rape following a two‑week trial at the Central Criminal Court. His lawyers argued that his Crohn's disease and concerns for his asthmatic children's health amid the Covid‑19 pandemic warranted release. The judge rejected the application, stating that the concerns were hypothetical and that the prison service had not demonstrated an inability to manage the defendant's health. He noted that rapists and murderers can have difficult family circumstances, but the defendant was facing a significant prison term. The case was adjourned to 11 May for sentencing, with no interference of witnesses reported.
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.
The High Court has adjourned a dispute between Wissam Al Mana, a UK-based Qatari national, and Facebook Ireland Ltd regarding an application for a Norwich Pharmacal order. Mr Al Mana, the applicant, alleges that unknown parties have published fake advertisements using his name and image to promote a cryptocurrency programme called Bitcoin Trader, which he claims is defamatory and maliciously false. He seeks details of the advertisers to pursue legal action. Although the matter was due for a hearing, the parties reached a temporary arrangement to avoid a judicial decision during the current health emergency. Mr Justice David Barniville adjourned the case to a date after the Easter holidays. He ordered Facebook to provide Mr Al Mana with basic subscriber information, IP addresses, and payment method details of the account holders within 14 days. Counsel for Mr Al Mana, Paul O'Higgins SC, accepted the arrangement under protest, arguing for a shorter ten-day deadline due to defamation time limits. Facebook's counsel, Cian Ferriter SC, stated the company was not consenting but would abide by the order, noting the 14-day period was shorter than standard and raising potential technical difficulties in retrieving initial registration data. The judge noted any compliance issues could be addressed when the matter returns to court. Janet Jackson, Mr Al Mana's ex-wife, is named in the report as context for his identity but is not a party to this specific procedural order.
In April 2020 the Irish High Court terminated an extradition request for Igor Khatlamadzhiyev, a 47‑year‑old Russian citizen, after Russian authorities failed to respond to the court's concerns about prison conditions and fair‑trial rights. Khatlamadzhiyev, who was wanted for alleged thefts and robberies in Russia between November 1997 and February 1998, had been on an international wanted list since 2004 and was arrested by Garda detectives in August 2018. The High Court judge, Mr Justice Donald Binchy, had sought assurances that Khatlamadzhiyev would receive a fair trial and that pre‑trial detention facilities in Russia met acceptable standards. No reply was received despite reminders, leading counsel Kieran Kelly to request the client's discharge and release. Mr Justice Tony Hunt confirmed that, in the absence of a response, the proceedings should terminate, preventing further custodial time for Khatlamadzhiyev. The case reflects Ireland's cautious approach to extradition to Russia, citing structural weaknesses in the Russian judicial system.