In a Tallaght District Court hearing on 9 September 2025, a woman named Cathrina Boyle, aged 65, was accused of drink‑driving on the N81 on 22 December 2023. Garda Paul Byrne stopped her vehicle after noticing erratic driving, observed blood‑shot eyes, slurred speech, and a strong smell of alcohol, and arrested her. Boyle voluntarily gave a blood sample, which was sealed, labelled, and sent to the Medical Bureau of Road Safety. The sample reportedly returned a concentration of 227 mg of alcohol per 100 ml, exceeding the legal limit. Defence counsel Oisín Clarke argued that the chain of custody for the specimen was not proven, citing a recent High Court decision in Ratinskis v DPP that quashed a conviction on similar grounds. Judge Patricia McNamara adjourned the case to 23 October, noting the High Court ruling had not yet formally taken effect. The unnamed accused pleaded not guilty.
In a High Court hearing on 30 July 2025, construction magnate Maurice Regan, who outbid John Magnier for the Barne Estate in Tipperary, admitted to sending a WhatsApp message in October 2023 to a third party hoping a newspaper article would give Magnier a "heart attack". Regan appeared before Mr Justice Max Barrett and was questioned by Paul Gallagher SC, who represented Magnier. Regan said the message was a "light humour" remark and that he had no knowledge of an exclusivity agreement that had been in place between 31 August and 30 September 2023. He denied funding the Thomson‑Moore defence, claimed he had been blocked from bidding, and said he had never been told of the exclusivity clause. The court heard that Magnier seeks to enforce a €15‑million handshake deal he alleges was signed with Richard Thomson‑Moore, while the estate trustees and Thomson‑Moore deny any such agreement existed. The dispute remains ongoing.
In a High Court hearing on 29 July 2025, trustees of the Barne Estate in Tipperary rejected a sale to John Magnier after he sent two brown envelopes containing €50,000 to the estate's chief beneficiaries. Magnier claims a €15 million 'handshake deal' was sealed with heir Richard Thomson‑Moore on 22 August 2023, but the trustees say no formal agreement was reached. The trustees had initially preferred Magnier's bid over that of construction magnate Maurice Regan, who offered €5 million more. After the exclusivity period ended in September 2023, the trustees chose Regan's €22.25 million offer, citing concerns over the cash envelopes as a potential inducement and the need for due diligence on Regan's higher bid. Magnier has sued the trustees and related companies to enforce the alleged deal, while the trustees maintain no agreement existed. The case remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
Mohamed Abdallatif Hussein, a Somali diplomat accredited to Saudi Arabia and attached to the Somali embassy in Riyadh, was arrested at Dublin Airport on 26 November 2024. Gardaí charged him with eight alleged people‑smuggling offences under the Criminal Justice (Smuggling of Persons) Act 2001 and 2021, all purportedly occurring at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 of the airport. He has not entered a plea. On 8 January 2025, at Cloverhill District Court, he was further charged with four additional counts. On 28 July 2025, his lawyer, Faisal Sadiq Khan, filed an ex‑parte High Court application seeking his release from Cloverhill Prison on the basis of diplomatic immunity. Mr Ward SC argued that Hussein was travelling under a diplomatic passport and was unlawfully detained. The application challenges the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Governor of Cloverhill Prison, and the case is set to return to the High Court the following day.
In a High Court hearing, estate agent John Stokes testified about a disputed purchase of the Barne Estate, a 751‑acre Tipperary property. John Magnier, a bloodstock billionaire, claims he secured a €15 million handshake agreement with Richard Thomson‑Moore on 22 August 2023, and is suing Thomson‑Moore and Barne Estate Ltd for the deal's collapse. Stokes denies that he informed trustees of the estate about the offer, stating he had no contact details for them and that any agreement was subject to trustee approval. He also says he received a €50 000 payment in September 2023 intended for the Thomson‑Moore beneficiaries, which was later returned. Stokes describes the negotiations as "head‑wrecking" and notes that an exclusivity period ended when a rival offer of €20 million, later €22.25 million, was made by construction magnate Maurice Regan. The case remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
A Galway farmer, Paul Neilan, has been granted permission to challenge a compulsory purchase order (CPO) issued by An Coimisiún Pleanála (ACP) for the Connemara Greenway Project, which he claims would run across his land and 'split' his farm, making it 'unmanageable and landlocked'. At the High Court, lawyers for Oliver Joyce, from Clifden, Co Galway, successfully applied to Ms Justice Emily Farrell to challenge the decision of ACP to grant the CPO to Galway County Council relating to lands he owns in Doireliagh and Doireclunlaigh. The project aims to install a cycle and walkway from Galway city to Clifden over 76 kilometres, which would pass through 'the backbone' of Mr Joyce's property along the old Galway-to-Clifden railway line. Mr Oliver claims the project, as approved, differs from the original proposal, which was to be carried out on a permissive basis. He argues that the CPO decision was 'taken without cause or justification' and that environmental assessments related to the original scheme were not considered for the new elements in the CPO. Ms Justice Farrell granted leave for the judicial review to Michael O'Donnell BL, instructed by Harrington & Co solicitors – for Mr Oliver – and adjourned the matter to September.
A 16‑year‑old boy, born in January 2009 at Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise, received a €1.9 million settlement after a High Court approved a claim of medical negligence. The mother sued the HSE for alleged breaches of statutory duty, citing a delayed Caesarean section and abnormal cardiotocography (CTG) readings that were not properly monitored. The child was delivered 80 minutes after the decision to perform the emergency Caesarean, with a 50‑minute delay beyond the usual timeframe. He suffered severe breathing difficulties, hypoxia, and a delayed resuscitation, during which an anaesthetist allegedly interfered with the attending doctor's attempts to intubate. The newborn spent 11 days in intensive care, had an MRI‑confirmed kidney and brain infarct, and was left with severe personal injuries. The settlement was reached without an admission of liability, and the court approved it on the day of the hearing. The family welcomed the outcome and urged a review of maternity care in Ireland.
More than 70 asylum seekers at an accommodation centre in Athlone, County Westmeath, have been offered alternative housing while the government prepares emergency legislation to address accommodation pressures, the High Court heard. Of approximately 125 people remaining at the facility, offers have been extended to 70 residents, with responses expected within a week. The High Court action, taken by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan through judicial review, centres on the validity of a statutory instrument used to expedite construction at Lissywollen. The State has conceded the instrument was invalid and is developing remedial legislation. Ms Justice Emily Farrell adjourned proceedings to next week but cautioned against further deferrals, noting the government had sufficient opportunity to bring legislation before the Dáil. Counsel for Cllr Hogan argued that November dates for legislative submission had become untenable, with the minister's process alleged to be unlawful and irrational. The government cited significant systemic pressure in seeking to maintain the status quo pending legislation.
The High Court heard evidence in John Magnier's lawsuit against Richard Thomson-Moore and Barne Estate regarding the collapse of a purported €15 million sale of the 751-acre property. Mr Magnier seeks to enforce a handshake agreement dated August 22, 2023, while the defendants contend no binding deal existed without trustee consent. During testimony before Mr Justice Max Barrett, Mr Thomson-Moore addressed allegations that a third party offered him a "secret" phone to contact rival bidder Maurice Regan without trace. Mr Thomson-Moore stated he did not personally receive or use the device, noting he was already in contact with Mr Regan on his personal phone after the exclusivity period expired. Counsel for Mr Magnier, Caren Geoghegan SC, read text messages alleging the third party kept Mr Regan updated on the deal and that Mr Thomson-Moore expressed skepticism about the sale's finality. Mr Thomson-Moore acknowledged telling the third party that the deal was "far from done" but denied using tax matters to stall the transaction, citing genuine concerns. The defendants maintain that the trustees initially favored the Magnier bid but later accepted Mr Regan's higher €22.25 million offer. The matter remains ongoing, with the hearing continuing at the High Court.
James Duffy, a part‑time taxi driver and pensioner from Finglas, has pleaded not guilty to a charge that he brought 14,000 cigarettes into Ireland without paying excise duty. The alleged offence, which would amount to over €11,000 in duty, is said to have occurred on 26 April 2024 at Dublin Airport. Duffy's lawyers applied to the High Court for a judicial review of the summons issued to him, arguing that the summons lacked written information on his procedural rights under EU regulations. They contend that this omission prevented Duffy from making an informed decision when he represented himself and entered a not‑guilty plea. The High Court granted permission for the challenge, stayed the Circuit Court proceedings, and adjourned the matter to October, with a trial date set for next April. The case remains pending in the Circuit Court.
The High Court trial concerning a disputed €15 million agreement for the 17th-century Barne Estate in Tipperary continued before Mr Justice Max Barrett. Applicants John Magnier, Richard Thomson-Moore, and Century Barne Estate are parties to the litigation, where Mr Magnier seeks to enforce an alleged handshake deal. Mr Thomson-Moore, giving evidence in defence, stated he was "shocked" by an "untoward" offer of two envelopes containing €50,000 in cash, described by the Magnier side as a "luck penny" or token of appreciation. The defendants deny a binding agreement existed, noting that estate trustees ultimately accepted a higher offer from Maurice Regan, who is not a party to the case. Mr Thomson-Moore testified that while a price was agreed, a final deal was not, and that the cash was later returned. Cross-examination focused on lists of the mansion's contents, with the Magnier side suggesting an intent to withhold high-value items from trustees, an allegation Mr Thomson-Moore denied. The matter remains at the trial stage and has not been finalised.
In a High Court hearing, Anna Thomson‑Moore testified that John Magnier's Coolmore group had delivered €50,000 in cash in two brown envelopes to her husband's estate agent after a purported hand‑shake agreement for the Barne Estate. She described the envelopes as "incredibly tainted and dirty" and said she returned the money days later. Thomson‑Moore also claimed that Maurice Regan, who later outbid Magnier, had called her "professional bullies" and that Coolmore had been intimidating her. She denied deliberately withholding information that could have delayed the sale and said the estate had taken a commercial loan from a Regan company without any indemnity clause. The case, involving the Barne Estate, Thomson‑Moore, and IQEQ (Jersey) Ltd, remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
The High Court has granted TikTok permission to challenge a €530 million fine imposed by the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) regarding the alleged transfer of European users' personal data to China. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted leave for the judicial review and adjourned the matter to October. The application was brought by TikTok Technology Limited and TikTok Information Technologies UK Limited against the DPC, Ireland, and the Attorney General. The applicants argue that the administrative fines of €485 million and €45 million constitute a 'penal' or criminal sanction, rendering the relevant sections of the Data Protection Act unconstitutional and incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. They further contend that the DPC was not exercising limited judicial powers and that the fines disproportionately interfere with their right to private property under the Constitution. The DPC originally imposed the fine and a censure on April 30, 2025, citing infringements related to remote access to data stored in the US and Singapore by personnel in China. The court placed a stay on the DPC's decisions pending the outcome of the legal review. The matter was adjourned to October.
At the High Court, Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted an application for leave brought by Paul McGarry SC for retired Donegal garda sergeant Paul Wallace, adjourning the matter to October. Mr Wallace, of Burtonport, is seeking judicial review against the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána over their alleged failure to determine his January 2023 application to restore his Gaeltacht allowance. He claims this inaction breaches fair procedures and prevents him from pursuing internal appeals. Mr Wallace alleges that his pension entitlements are affected, resulting in a claimed loss of €8,708.17 from his gratuity and €249.38 monthly from his pension. He states he served in Gaeltacht areas, including Glencolmcille and Bun Beag, and later in Letterkenny, which was designated a 'Gaeltacht service town' in 2020. Despite reapplying in 2023, he retired in March 2024 without a decision. The court did not conclude the case; it was adjourned.
The High Court heard evidence in the ongoing dispute between John Magnier and Richard Thomson-Moore regarding a purported €15 million handshake deal for 751 acres in Co Tipperary. Anna Thomson-Moore, wife of the defendant, testified that the family was forced to take out a commercial loan to defend the case, describing the proceedings as an "onslaught" that delayed their plans to move to Australia for their son's care. She alleged that estate agent John Stokes conveyed a threat from Mr Magnier to pursue "litigation for years" at a cost of "millions" if the land were sold to others. Ms Thomson-Moore stated that the defendants had informed Mr Magnier that any agreement was subject to trustee consent, a condition Mr Magnier denies was mentioned. She also detailed receiving two brown envelopes containing €50,000 in cash from JP Magnier, which the family subsequently returned. The Magnier side characterised the cash as a token of appreciation. The defendants, including the Barne Estate and three IQEQ (Jersey) Ltd companies, deny any binding agreement existed, noting they ultimately preferred a higher offer from non-party Maurice Regan. The case continues before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
In the High Court, Anna Thomson-Moore, the wife of applicant Richard Thomson-Moore, testified that the family sold the Barne Estate in County Tipperary to facilitate a move to Australia for their five-year-old son's healthcare needs. She stated that local services were under-resourced, while Australia offered individualised budgets for their son's diagnoses, requiring physical presence. The testimony was given in the case brought by respondent John Magnier, who alleges a handshake agreement was reached in August 2023 for the 751-acre estate at €15 million. Magnier claims the deal was broken when the estate was sold to Maurice Regan for €22.25 million. The Barne defendants, including Richard Thomson-Moore and three IQEQ (Jersey) Ltd companies, deny any such agreement existed, asserting that trustee consent was required and that they ultimately chose to sell to Regan. Ms. Thomson-Moore, a trained lawyer, told the court that she informed Magnier the sale was a family decision involving trustees. The case, heard before Mr Justice Max Barrett, continues with the Magnier side seeking to enforce the purported deal.
In a High Court settlement, Christopher Miley's family will receive €185,000 after his death on 28 October 2021 when a loader shovel at Behan Quarry in Rathcoole, Dublin, struck and crushed him. Miley, 31, was refuelling vehicles for Shannon Valley Plant Hire while employed by Euro Oil. His partner, Shelly Keating, brought a personal injury claim against five defendants: Shannon Valley Plant Hire Unlimited Company, Laurence Behan Senior, L Behan and Sons Ltd, L Behan Aggregates and Recycling Ltd, and MPM Oil trading as Euro Oil. The claim alleged negligence, breach of statutory and contractual duty, and failure to provide a safe work environment, including inadequate lighting after dark. No defendant admitted liability. The court approved the settlement, waiving claims from Miley's sisters and mother, and expressed sympathy for Keating and the children.
A Palestinian man living in the West Bank has applied to the High Court for an order to quash a February 2025 Garda decision not to investigate a complaint that Israeli settlers had barred him from his land, built cabins on it, and advertised those cabins for rent on an Irish‑registered website. The man, whose identity was anonymised by the court, is joined by the Palestinian rights group Sadaka – The Ireland Palestine Alliance Limited. The applicants allege that the website's booking of the cabins constitutes a crime, claiming the site is an accessory to transfer, appropriation and money laundering. They argue that the cabins were still advertised online as of May 2025 and that the Israeli Defence Forces had prevented the man from accessing his land since the late 1990s, a situation that continued until 2004 when settlers began construction.
In a High Court hearing, Garda Commissioner Kilda Mooney argued that the Dublin District Court's March order to discover documents and costs for 38 non‑national taxi licence applicants was beyond the court's jurisdiction. The Commissioner, acting as the licensing authority, contended that the court was not deciding civil matters but licensing suitability. She noted that voluntary disclosures had already been made by Gardaí to the refused applicants. The High Court granted a stay on the District Court orders and adjourned the case to October. The appeal concerns the 'suitability' of the applicants to hold Small Public Service Vehicle licences, a matter the Commissioner says must consider public safety, character, and immigration status as outlined in the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. The case remains under judicial review.
The High Court heard that Ryan Casey, partner of murdered teacher Ashling Murphy, has settled a defamation claim against the BBC over comments made about his victim impact statement during a 2023 live broadcast. Casey said he was "finally free" to speak again and to honour Ashling, while the BBC clarified it does not view him as a criminal or hateful figure. The settlement, reportedly a six‑figure sum, was reached without any court order. Casey's statement at the sentencing of Ashling's murderer, Josef Puska, had highlighted the victim's contributions and the perceived failure of the state to protect people. The case was struck out by Mr Justice Alexander Owens, ending the legal dispute. The settlement resolves the dispute between Casey and the broadcaster.
In the High Court, lawyers for Nikita Hand argued that the Director of Public Prosecutions should consider perjury proceedings after Conor McGregor withdrew his bid to introduce new evidence in his appeal of a civil jury's finding that he raped Ms Hand. The civil case, decided last year, awarded Ms Hand €248,000 in damages. McGregor's appeal team had planned to present sworn statements from neighbours Samantha O'Reilly and Steven Cummins, who claimed to have seen an assault. O'Reilly's affidavit suggested she witnessed a man push Ms Hand to the ground and then kick her, but Ms Hand has called the allegations "lies" and "vigorously" disputed them. The court allowed McGregor's withdrawal of the new evidence application, and the appeal will continue tomorrow. The case remains at the appeal stage, with no further decisions yet.
Bewley's Café and a company owned by property developer Johnny Ronan have taken a dispute over the €747,000 per year rent for the Grafton Street outlet to the High Court. RGRE Grafton Limited, which owns the building, claims the rent should be €1 million, while a valuer hired by Bewley's says it should be €518,000. Bewley's had previously paid €1.46 million for the premises before a Circuit Court ruling cut the rent in half to €747 k. Both parties are appealing the Circuit Court decision. The case focuses on valuation methods, with Bewley's expert Fergus Crosse arguing that improvements to the building justify a lower rent, and RGRE's valuer David Potter contesting the zoning approach used by Crosse, claiming it undervalues the restaurant space. The matter is now before Ms Justice Sara Phelan.
A High Court judge has deferred judgment on the State's application to overturn a December order quashing a statutory instrument used to fast-track emergency accommodation development at Lissywollen in Athlone, County Westmeath. Ms Justice Emily Farrell said she would await draft legislation from the Oireachtas aimed at remedying a procedural breach concerning environmental assessments. The judge acknowledged the vulnerability of residents at the facility and stated the Minister has an obligation to provide alternative accommodation or demonstrate efforts to do so. She imposed restrictions on the centre, permitting only essential maintenance and prohibiting new admissions beyond those accommodated in February. The State submitted that closure risks homelessness among asylum seekers currently residing there. The judicial review was brought by Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan, who successfully argued the expedited development process was unlawful. The matter was adjourned to 21 July, with the judge directing that resident numbers be substantially reduced by that date.
Gerard McCarthy, 55, has sworn in a jury at the High Court to pursue a claim against the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána, the Minister for Justice, Ireland and the Attorney General. He alleges that on Halloween night 2008, while cycling to investigate two fires near his partner's home on Findlater Street, he was assaulted by gardaí in riot gear. McCarthy, who was 38 at the time, says he was struck on both shoulders, his back and legs by a group of 10 to 12 riot police while still on his bicycle. He reports that the attack lasted between five and ten seconds and that up to five officers with shields and helmets used batons. He was taken to Mater Hospital that night, later had an X‑ray that showed a broken shoulder near the collarbone, and claims he was left numb and in shock.
In a High Court hearing, the State applied for a stay on a December order that quashed the use of a statutory instrument to fast-track the development of a refugee facility at Lissywollen, Athlone. The applicant, Independent Ireland Westmeath Councillor Paul Hogan, had previously secured a finding that the expedited development was unlawful due to inadequate environmental screening and a lack of ministerial expertise. Hogan alleged the process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures. The State's counsel, Aoife Carroll SC, argued that closing the facility posed a serious risk to the dignity and safety of asylum seekers, noting that 137 residents remained. She described the conceded breach as procedural rather than substantial and stated that corrective legislation was imminent. Counsel for Hogan, Oisín Collins SC, countered that the State should use existing planning laws and enforcement notices rather than seeking a stay. Justice Emily Farrell heard the arguments and adjourned the matter, indicating she would deliver her judgment on the stay application on Wednesday.
Eddie Irwin, a senior adviser to John Magnier, has denied being kept in the loop regarding the tax affairs of the Barne Estate, which Magnier sought to purchase. Irwin, who has worked with Magnier for 40 years, rejected being described as the billionaire's 'fixer' or 'right-hand man'. He stated that Coolmore Stud, which Magnier founded, does not use such titles. The case involves Magnier's claim that Maurice Regan, a US-based construction magnate, outbid him for the 751-acre estate in Tipperary. Irwin said he was contacted by the Thomson-Moore family, who own the estate through a Jersey trust, to provide tax advice. He claimed that a KPMG tax expert was consulted, but he did not attend the meeting. Irwin denied that he received an 'off-the-record' report from the expert, as alleged by counsel. He also expressed concerns that the tax issue raised by the Thomson-Moores was brought up just before the end of an exclusivity agreement.
A heated exchange occurred during the High Court trial involving John Magnier, who is pursuing a €15 million deal he claims was agreed with a Tipperary landowner over a large tract of land. The case involves Barne Estate, Tim Gleeson, Magnier's Coolmore Stud, Coolmore Stud, and Magnier's Coolmore, all of whom are applicants. During the cross-examination of Tim Gleeson, a financial manager at Coolmore Stud, Martin Hayden SC for Barne Estate alleged that members of the gallery were nodding at the witness, potentially influencing his answers. Hayden gestured towards the Magnier side and requested that individuals stop making head gestures. Mr. Gleeson denied seeing any gestures and stated he was following documents and facing the judge when answering questions. Paul Gallagher SC for the Coolmore side refuted the claim, calling it 'outrageous' and 'not true'. The judge instructed all present to refrain from nodding upon hearing responses given by the witness. A third interruption occurred when Gallagher claimed a junior counsel from the defence was staring at the gallery. The hearing then re-commenced for Mr. Gleeson to conclude his evidence. The case continues before Mr. Justice Barrett, with the Magnier side alleging that Barne Estate reneged on the deal, preferring to sell the land to Maurice Regan at a higher price. The Barne Estate defendants deny any such agreement, stating they needed the consent of the trustees to finalise any agreement and preferred to sell to Regan. The case is ongoing.
Two men in their 70s have been granted leave to appeal their extradition to Northern Ireland on charges connected to the 1975 murder of an RUC officer. At the High Court, Mr Justice Patrick McGrath ruled that while authorities had provided detailed explanation for the delay in seeking their surrender, this was incomplete and included lengthy periods of inaction. John Edward McNicholl, of Newmills, Letterkenny, County Donegal, and Seamus Christopher O'Kane, of Scalestown, County Meath, face charges arising from the investigation into the death of Constable Robert John McPherson, shot in an ambush in County Derry on 26 July 1975. Both men escaped from the Maze Prison in May 1976 before trial. The judge certified questions for the Court of Appeal regarding whether the 48-year delay constituted abuse of process and whether the omission to seek surrender for all original offences was an abuse of process. Both men were remanded on continuing bail pending further hearing.
In a High Court hearing on 3 June 2025, Mr Justice Garret Simons considered whether to lift a suspension on 15 boating permits for ferries to and from Skellig Michael, a UNESCO heritage island. The permits had been withheld while a judicial review of the Office of Public Works' (OPW) tendering process was pending. Two companies that lost the 2025 season tender—Skellig Michael Boat Trips and Atlantic Endeavour Limited—had challenged the OPW's decision, arguing the process was deficient and lacked transparency. The OPW claimed that Irish and EU law prevented it from issuing permits until the legal dispute was resolved. Mr Justice Simons expressed surprise at the OPW's claim that preparing the case would take six months, describing the matter as "the most straightforward case of competition for licences". He ordered the case to be heard next month, gave it top priority, and said he would rule on Thursday whether to lift the suspension.
In a High Court hearing on 30 May 2025, Susan Magnier, wife of billionaire John Magnier, supported her husband's claim that a €15 million purchase of a 751‑acre tract in County Tipperary had been agreed at a kitchen‑table meeting on 22 August 2023 at the Coolmore estate. She testified that the sellers, represented by estate agent John Stokes, moved to another room to contact trustees and a beneficiary before returning to accept the offer. The Magniers allege that the deal was later abandoned in favour of a higher €22.25 million offer from New York developer Maurice Regan, who they say used a "full‑frontal assault" to undermine the agreement. The defendants deny any agreement, claiming they required trustee consent and ultimately sold to Regan. The case is set to continue before Mr Justice Max Barrett next week.
During a High Court hearing on 29 May 2025, John Magnier, the billionaire behind Coolmore Stud, testified that a barrister had "unfairly gone after" his good name and that he had come to court for "protection, not to be slaughtered." He argued that his reputation was essential for business and that the opposition's lawyer, Martin Hayden SC, had tried to undermine it. Magnier claimed that a failed €15 million land deal in Tipperary had been agreed with Barne Estate on 22 August 2023, with an exclusivity period until 30 September 2023, but that the estate later sold the land to Maurice Regan for €22.25 million. He alleged that the estate's representatives had misrepresented the agreement and that he had attempted to enforce the deal by suing the estate, Richard Thomson‑Moore and associated companies. The case remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
In a High Court hearing on 28 May 2025, John Magnier, the Irish bloodstock billionaire, argued that money is not personally significant to him but serves as a metric for business performance. He explained that he had engaged legal and financial experts for decisions beyond his expertise. Magnier claimed that a former exclusive agreement to purchase 751 acres in County Tipperary for €15 million was breached when the estate, Barne, sold the land to Maurice Regan for €22.25 million. He alleged that Regan's actions constituted a "full‑frontal assault" on the deal and that the estate's agent described the situation as "greed." Magnier, together with his adult children, seeks enforcement of the alleged agreement, which they say was signed on 22 August 2023 and remained exclusive until 30 September. The defendants deny any such contract and argue the sale to Regan was lawful. The case remains before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
In a High Court hearing on 27 May 2025, bloodstock billionaire John Magnier testified that he had reached an agreement to buy 751 acres in County Tipperary for €15 million in August 2023, but the deal collapsed when the former owners, represented by Barne Estate, sold the land to US construction magnate Maurice Regan for €22.5 million. Magnier claimed an exclusivity period from 31 August to 30 September 2023 prevented other parties from soliciting the property, and that the estate agent's remark that "greed" was the reason for the failure was a key point of his evidence. He alleged that the estate returned his initial payments in September 2023 and that the sale was sabotaged by Regan, who allegedly used a journalist to influence the agent. The case, which is expected to last three weeks, seeks to enforce the alleged agreement and is currently before Mr Justice Max Barrett.
In a High Court hearing on 27 May 2025, lawyers for billionaire John Magnier alleged that the Barne Estate, managed by a Jersey trust, breached an exclusivity agreement and sold 751 acres of Tipperary land to Maurice Regan for €22.5 million after Magnier claimed a €15 million deal had been struck on 22 August 2023. Magnier, his adult children John Paul and Kate, and their counsel Paul Gallagher SC presented evidence that the estate had agreed not to solicit offers from anyone other than Magnier between 31 August and 30 September 2023. The defendants denied any such agreement and said they had sold the land to Regan, who is not a party to the case. Gallagher also alleged that Regan had arranged for journalist Paul Williams to contact the estate agent, implying Regan's exclusion was unlawful. The case is expected to last three weeks.
The Special Criminal Court has sentenced three defendants convicted of murder and three others for violent disorder arising from the Christmas Eve 2023 killing of Tristan Sherry at Browne's Steakhouse in Blanchardstown. Mr Justice Kerida Naidoo sentenced David Amah (19) and an unnamed 18-year-old accomplice to 12 years' imprisonment, with the final three years suspended. Both were 17 at the time of the offence, meaning they were not subject to the mandatory life sentence, a position supported by recent Supreme Court rulings. Michael Andrecut (23), who was an adult at the time, was previously sentenced to the mandatory life term. For the violent disorder convictions, Brandon Hennessy (22) received four-and-a-half years, with the final six months suspended for one year. Jonas Kabangu (19) was sentenced to four years, with the final 12 months suspended for two years. An unnamed 18-year-old received two years and four months, with the final year suspended for two years. The judge noted the lack of premeditation and that the victims were disarmed when attacked, while emphasizing the need to deter unlawful violence.
Jemima Burke appeared before the High Court to challenge a public order conviction obtained at Ballina District Court. Ms Burke alleged that her constitutional rights were breached due to the excessive haste of the original proceedings, claiming she was detained for two hours and tried within 55 minutes of release without legal representation or disclosure. She stated she was filming an inquest in Swinford, Co Mayo, when arrested, and argued that the garda's confiscation of her phone deprived her of probative evidence. The District Court judge had convicted her of one public order offence, with the other taken into consideration, and fined her €350. Ms Burke described the process as resembling something from the Middle Ages. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Kieran Kelly BL, did not oppose the quashing of the conviction but argued the matter should be remitted to the District Court for a new hearing before a different judge to ensure a fair trial. Ms Justice Sara Phelan reserved judgment in the matter, meaning the case was adjourned and not concluded.
In a High Court civil case, former Irish Nationwide senior manager Conal Regan testified that Michael Fingleton Sr., the ex‑chief executive, allegedly issued a "get‑out‑of‑jail card" to a borrower who could not repay a €6 million loan. Regan said the borrower, who had purchased land in Meath in 2007, was told by a letter that the loan was "non‑recourse", meaning the lender could not pursue the borrower beyond the collateral. Regan could not find any documentation supporting the non‑recourse claim and expressed shock at the letter, which he said was issued at Fingleton's direction. The case, in its third week, accuses Fingleton of negligent mismanagement and speculative property dealings that led to significant losses for Irish Nationwide. The court continues to hear the matter.
Glen Ward (32) and his brother Eric O'Driscoll (23) were further sentenced on 21 May 2025 for violent disorder and related offences committed in 2022. Both pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Cardiffsbridge Road, Finglas West on 9 August 2022 and to producing a bicycle saddle during a dispute at Dunnes Stores. They also pleaded guilty to possessing a .223 calibre Remington AR‑15 semi‑automatic rifle on 1 January 2022, with circumstances suggesting unlawful use. Ward received a six‑year, three‑month Special Criminal Court sentence, with the final nine months suspended; O'Driscoll received a six‑year sentence, with the final year suspended. In addition, Ward was given an 18‑month suspended sentence for violent disorder, while O'Driscoll received a two‑year sentence with the final 18 months suspended. Judge Elva Duffy noted the sentences were mandatory consecutive terms and banned O'Driscoll from driving for ten years.
In a High Court hearing, state‑appointed director Rory O'Farrell argued that Irish Nationwide Building Society (INBS) operated like a merchant bank under former chief executive Michael Fingleton Sr., taking "very strong lending positions" on speculative property projects in the UK and France between 2006 and 2009. O'Farrell said these loans were unusual given the 2007 pledge to be risk‑averse amid a looming financial crisis, and that Fingleton allegedly approved them without board or credit committee approval, with no securities or personal guarantees. The civil case, brought by liquidators of the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation, seeks €290 million in damages relating to five specific loans, while total losses at INBS were estimated at €6 billion. Fingleton, aged 87 and unable to testify due to ill‑health, denies negligent mismanagement. The case remains ongoing in the High Court.
The chief executive of a veterinary business has stated that he has 'never heard of a veterinary surgeon on the dole', as a tribunal considers the case of Annie Baltz, a former clinical director who was unfairly dismissed. Ms Baltz, a qualified vet with 12 years of experience, was sacked without notice in March 2024 by CVS (Ireland) Veterinary Service No. 2 Ltd following an internal investigation into a bullying complaint. The company admitted the dismissal was procedurally flawed and has since changed its name to GVE Vets (Ireland) No. 2 Ltd. Ms Baltz is seeking compensation for lost earnings after being out of work until she took up a new role in July 2024. She argued that she was seeking jobs that allowed her to balance work with childcare responsibilities, while the company's CEO claimed she applied for roles she was unqualified for and could have mitigated her losses with locum work.
The High Court has granted leave for judicial review to an unnamed 18-year-old accused of violent disorder and assault causing harm in Dublin. The applicant, represented by James B Dwyer SC, seeks an injunction against his prosecution at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, alleging a three-year delay that prevented his access to juvenile diversion. The alleged offences occurred in February 2022 on Henry Street, Dublin 1, where the teen, then 15, is accused of participating in an altercation with a Polish man who rebuked a group of teenagers for allegedly throwing eggs at a homeless man. The applicant denied the allegations during a voluntary interview, admitting only to his presence at the scene. In April 2024, he was deemed unsuitable for juvenile diversion because he had turned 17, resulting in his referral for trial. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted the application, stating there were "certainly arguable grounds" for review. The matter remains at the pre-trial stage, with the applicant due for arraignment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court later this month. No plea, finding, or sentence has been recorded, and the prosecution has not been concluded.
In the High Court's fourth day of the civil case against former Irish Nationwide Building Society chief Michael Fingleton, his lawyer, Niall Clerkin, argued that the case is plagued by "black holes" in documents and witness evidence. Clerkin said substantial tracts of paperwork are missing, including loan files for five property loans between 2006 and 2008 that IBRC claims caused €6 billion in losses but is now pursuing only €250 million in damages. He noted that Fingleton, aged 87 and ill‑health, cannot testify, and that only one senior staff member, Gary McCollum, remains to provide evidence, yet McCollum is too confused by the missing documents to give reliable testimony. Clerkin highlighted that no borrowers have been called by IBRC and that the critical triangle of Fingleton, McCollum and Tom McMenamin is incomplete. He urged the court to consider the lack of settled, factual documents before deciding on the case. The case continues at the High Court.
The High Court case against former Irish Nationwide boss Michael Fingleton is in its third day. The civil claim, brought by liquidators for the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation, alleges that Fingleton, who ran the building society from 1971 to 2009, negligently mismanaged the lender and engaged in speculative property lending without board approval. The court heard that in 2007 Fingleton approved two loans to Laurent Properties for a casino and hotel project in the south of France, issuing a second €2.1 million loan before the board or credit committee saw it. The development never materialised and the loans were later sold at a loss. Similar "solo run" lending was alleged in a £1.75 million loan to Coast and Capital for petrol stations and a £20 million loan to Galliard (Sully) Ltd for a hospital outside Cardiff, both of which resulted in massive losses. The case continues at the High Court.
In a High Court hearing on 7 May 2025, Irish Nationwide Building Society (INBS) faced a civil case brought by the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation (IBRC) against former chief Michael Fingleton. The case alleges that Fingleton, who ran INBS from 1971 to 2009, approved millions of euros in commercial loans and top‑ups without board approval, including a €28 million loan for two run‑down hotels in the French Alps that lacked planning permission. IBRC claims the loans were speculative, lacked security or personal guarantees, and were approved by Fingleton before they reached the board or credit panel. The court heard that Fingleton "nodded" through approvals by phone or handwritten notes, and that a €130 million loan was later disputed as non‑recourse. IBRC is pursuing €250 million in damages from five alleged loans, while the total loss from property loans is estimated at €6 billion. The case remains ongoing.
The High Court has opened a civil case brought by the Irish Banking Resolution Corporation (IBRC) against former Irish Nationwide Building Society (INBS) chief executive Michael Fingleton. IBRC alleges that Mr Fingleton negligently mismanaged the society for decades, specifically regarding five property loans approved between 2006 and 2008. While IBRC estimates total property loan losses at €6 billion, it is currently pursuing €250 million in damages related to these specific loans. Mr Fingleton, who is 87 and in ill health, denies the allegations of negligent mismanagement. He is acting through his wife, Eileen Fingleton, and son, Michael Fingleton Jnr, under powers of attorney. Counsel for IBRC argued that Mr Fingleton engaged in speculative property gambles, often approving loans before board review and without adequate safeguards or independent valuations. The court heard that INBS shifted heavily toward commercial lending, a move warned against by the financial regulator. The proceedings, originally initiated in 2012, finally opened before Mr Justice Michael Quinn. The case is expected to last up to eight weeks. Mr Fingleton's son has stated that his father's assets are limited to €25,000 in bank accounts, despite outstanding judgment debts exceeding €10.7 million.
In a High Court case, Mr. James Buckley was warned by Judge Liam Kennedy that he was "perilously close" to being jailed for contempt if he failed to return the racehorse 'Big Time Louie' to Ms. Caroline Teltsch by 5 pm. The court had ordered the Buckleys to pay over €800,000 in damages after they were found to have unjustly enriched themselves with money loaned by Ms. Teltsch, who co‑owns the horse. The horse was to be placed in Ms. Teltsch's care, but Mr. Buckley removed it from the Emerald Equestrian Centre in Glenamaddy, claiming its feet were "rotting" and it could not walk. Judge Brian Cregan adjourned the matter to the following week, emphasizing that continued breach of the order could lead to imprisonment. The Buckleys' appeal of the original ruling was dismissed by the Court of Appeal. The case highlights the court's insistence on compliance with its orders regarding the horse's custody.
In a High Court case, Nicolae and Florin Mazarache, residents of Lealand Meadows, Clondalkin, appealed a ruling that allowed their prosecution for allegedly breaching Covid‑19 travel restrictions by travelling to Dublin Airport on 17 April 2021. The pair were stopped by a Garda and issued fixed‑payment notices under the Health Act, 1947, which offered a €2,000 fine to avoid prosecution or risk prosecution if unpaid. The notices failed to specify the exact regulation breached, a point the High Court found violated statutory requirements. The Mazaraches chose not to pay the fines and instead sought judicial review, which was dismissed by Ms Justice Nuala Jackson on 17 January 2023. They now appeal to the Court of Appeal, arguing that the District Court lacks jurisdiction to prosecute because the notices were unlawful. Counsel for the State countered that the error does not remove the District Court's authority. The Court of Appeal will reserve judgment.
During a sentencing hearing, Mr Justice Paul McDermott warned that teenagers are targeted by manipulative propaganda from terrorists and other dangerous elements online. He criticised those who argue for minimal internet regulation, noting the harm to children and the suffering inflicted on others. The judge spoke about a case involving a teenager who, after being exposed to radical Islamist ideology online, attempted to murder an Irish Defence Forces member. The teen, whose name is withheld due to age, attacked and stabbed army chaplain Father Paul Murphy (52) at Renmore Barracks in Galway on 15 August 2024. McDermott described the attack as "terrifying as it is extraordinary" and highlighted how vulnerable teens can be drawn to extremist content. He warned that "so‑called influencers" spread extreme political, religious or discriminatory views to children, who are easily preyed upon because of their immaturity and open access to the internet.
Dublin City Council has regained possession of the former home and shop of 1916 Rising leader Tom Clarke on Amiens Street after a group of alleged trespassers vacated the property. The High Court heard that the council had initiated proceedings last November to restrain "persons unknown" from trespassing following reports of unauthorised occupation in May. At the hearing, Gavin Mooney SC represented the council and reported that the alleged trespassers had agreed to vacate the house and had now provided their names. An inspection of the Georgian building, which dates from the 1790s, was previously adjourned due to concerns about a potential stand‑off with occupants. The council, which purchased the run‑down building for €630,000 in 2018, had planned to convert it into a museum and community centre, but works had not begun after a contractor withdrew in 2023.
The Special Court has sentenced Glen Ward to six years and three months in prison for possessing a .223 calibre Remington AR-15 semi-automatic rifle. Ward, 32, pleaded guilty to a charge that on January 1, 2022, at a Finglas address, he was in possession of or had control of the firearm in circumstances giving rise to a reasonable inference that he did not have it for a lawful purpose. Ms Justice Melanie Greally suspended the final nine months of the sentence, imposing a condition that Ward must keep the peace and be of good behaviour for 12 months after release, or he could serve the suspended portion. The judge noted a "certain unreality" to the suggestion that Ward had only fleeting involvement with the firearm, referencing video evidence showing him firing the gun and encouraging his brother, Eric O'Driscoll, to do the same. O'Driscoll, 23, also pleaded guilty to possession of the same gun. The court previously jailed O'Driscoll for five years. Gardai discovered the rifle alongside a military sub-machine gun during a search in February 2022. In mitigation, the court considered Ward's mental health impact from 23-hour lockup and his agreement not to associate with six named individuals.