During a video‑conference preliminary hearing on a statutory complaint by Davide Carbone against CPL Solutions Ltd trading as Covalen, a Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator, Máire Mulcahy, refused to order the press to shield the identity of the social media company that was the client of the subcontractor defending the claim. The request came from Covalen's advocate, IBEC employer relations executive Mark Comerford, who argued that the company was a "managed service provider for a client" and that commercial sensitivities and the lack of an employment relationship justified anonymity. Mulcahy explained that the issue of anonymising parties in WRC hearings is currently before the High Court and that the WRC must dispense justice in public. Consequently, she adjourned the hearing until the High Court decides on the extent of anonymisation, which she expects to issue within the next two months.
Three female students – Margaret Eyong Taku, Wendy Briggs and Christina Igweze – had their expulsions from Dundalk Institute of Technology overturned by the High Court after they contested the punishment for alleged violent altercations that took place on January 30 and 31, 2024. The students claimed the expulsions were disproportionate, that alternative sanctions had not been considered, and that no reason was given. They alleged that the incidents involved aggressive physical confrontations, including a head step, a wet‑floor warning sign, and hair pulling. A February 2024 committee recommended expulsion and campus bans, and an April appeals committee rejected all appeals. Mr Justice Anthony Barr remitted the case to a new appeals committee for fresh consideration, noting the potential impact on the students' education and careers. The students were undergraduate enrollees in the college's Bachelor of Science in Mental Health Nursing and Bioscience programmes.
A seven‑year‑old girl with Down Syndrome has been granted permission by the High Court to challenge the Health Service Executive's decision not to carry out an assessment of her needs. Derek Shortall SC, acting for the mother, applied for a judicial review and obtained a ruling from Ms Justice Marguerite Bolger that the case could proceed. Shortall argued that the HSE's position that it would not conduct an assessment was a refusal to meet statutory obligations. He noted that the child, who has health, developmental, psychological and intellectual issues, has received some services since 2018 but has not had a complete assessment that would trigger a service statement. The court allowed the review and adjourned the matter to May, recognising the seriousness of the alleged breach of procedure. The case remains pending.
An E‑Health director at the Health Service Executive (HSE), Louise Callanan, secured a High Court interim order restraining the HSE from terminating her contract on 3 April 2025. Callanan, who works as an Assistant National Director for the South/Southwest Hospital Group, claims she was mis‑described as a permanent employee when she applied in October 2021, but was later told her contract was fixed‑term for a specified purpose. She alleges she was penalised after making a protected disclosure in 2023 about a contract with a health information management company that failed to conduct full data protection assessments. Callanan says she faced unfair supervision, cancelled meetings, and limited budget and workforce allocation. The court granted the injunction and adjourned the case to Friday, with the HSE's letter dated 25 March 2025 cited as evidence of an administrative error. The order temporarily prevents the HSE from terminating her employment.
Former Limerick hurler Mark Keane, aged 43, was awarded €944,074.46 in damages by the High Court for injuries sustained while rescuing a co‑worker at a Johnson & Johnson plant in September 2018. Keane claimed the company was negligent and breached its duty of care, failing to provide a safe workplace and system of work. He suffered nerve damage, injury to his right hand, shoulder and back, leading to loss of grip, a frozen shoulder and ongoing pain. The court awarded €135,000 for general damages, €408,943.50 for future loss of earnings, €154,605 for loss of earnings since the accident, plus loss of pension rights, special damages and medical costs. Keane's injuries prevented him from working, affecting his financial stability and family life. The judge noted the accident had a profound psychological impact on Keane and his wife.
The High Court civil trial between Web Summit shareholders ended after parties reached a settlement. Founder Paddy Cosgrave, who had sued minority shareholder David Kelly for fiduciary breaches, and Kelly, who had sued Cosgrave and Daire Hickey for shareholder oppression, agreed to resolve their disputes. The court, presided over by Mr Justice Michael Twomey, scheduled the case for mention on 29 April and adjourned it until next month. The parties, including former director Daire Hickey, expressed satisfaction with the outcome. No details of the settlement were disclosed. The case had involved five separate actions and was expected to last up to nine weeks. The resolution was announced after talks outside Court 29 in the Four Courts. The parties thanked their legal teams and families for support. The settlement was reached before any further evidence was presented. The case was adjourned for a future hearing.
The High Court civil case involving Web Summit co‑founders reached a settlement after morning talks. The court had been scheduled to hear evidence from former director Daire Hickey, but proceedings were adjourned as lawyers negotiated outside Court 29. Barrister Michael Cush SC, representing former director David Kelly, reported that negotiations had not yet produced a result but were progressing. Mr Justice Twomey adjourned the case to 2 pm, and later that afternoon the legal teams of all three parties sat with the judge. Cush announced that a settlement agreement would be drafted overnight and presented to the court the next morning. The case, which began last week, involved Paddy Cosgrave suing Kelly for alleged breaches of fiduciary duties, while Kelly and Hickey sued Cosgrave for shareholder oppression and profit‑sharing breaches. The judge urged the parties to resolve their differences and highlighted the potential costs of prolonged litigation. The matter was adjourned until 11 am tomorrow for finalisation.
The High Court civil trials involving three former Web Summit directors were adjourned to allow settlement talks. The court was set to hear evidence from former director Daire Hickey, but proceedings were postponed as lawyers and parties negotiated outside Court 29. Barrister Michael Cush SC, representing former director David Kelly, informed Justice Michael Twomey that negotiations had not yet succeeded but that time had not been wasted. Justice Twomey adjourned the case until 2 pm. Paddy Cosgrave, majority shareholder, is suing Kelly for alleged breaches of fiduciary duties, while Kelly and Hickey, who hold 12 % and 7 % of shares respectively, sue Cosgrave for shareholder oppression and breach of a profit‑sharing agreement. The judge urged the parties to resolve their differences, warning that a prolonged litigation could lead to appeals and a final judgment that might not satisfy any of them. The case, which opened last week, was scheduled to run for nine weeks.
In the High Court, Mr Justice Michael Twomey urged the three co-founders of Web Summit to resolve their disputes rather than proceed with litigation, citing the personal costs involved. The proceedings, which opened last Tuesday and are scheduled for nine weeks, involve five separate actions. Daire Hickey, holding 7% of shares, and Dara Kelly, holding 12%, are suing majority shareholder Paddy Cosgrave for alleged shareholder oppression and breaches of a profit-sharing agreement. Conversely, Mr Cosgrave is suing Mr Kelly for alleged breaches of fiduciary duties as a director. During opening statements, counsel Bernard Dunleavy SC, representing Mr Cosgrave, alleged that the actions by Mr Hickey and Mr Kelly were driven by greed and an attempt to avoid a discount on potential share sales, claiming they "betrayed this business." Following the judge's remarks, Mr Dunleavy reported a "positive level of engagement" and "progress" in the case. He requested an adjournment to allow parties to consider the judge's comments. Mr Justice Twomey subsequently adjourned the case until 11am the following morning. The matter was adjourned and not concluded.
The owners of Ryevale House, an 18th‑century property in Leixlip, Co. Kildare, secured a temporary injunction from the High Court to stop nine named defendants from harassing or intimidating residents, staff or contractors. The injunction was sought after a protester threatened a foreman, saying the water‑connection works would not start unless the contractor was prepared to hit him with a bucket from his digger. The house, which began housing 93 female asylum seekers in March 2023, had a contract with the International Protection Accommodation Services office. The owners argued that protesters had regularly picketed the site, blocked the open space where the new water main was to be installed, and threatened the safety of contractors. The court granted the interim injunction and adjourned the matter to the following week.
Two men in their seventies will be extradited to Northern Ireland to face charges relating to the 1975 murder of an RUC officer, the High Court has ruled. John Edward McNicholl, aged 73, of Newmills, Letterkenny, County Donegal, and Seamus Christopher O'Kane, aged 74, of County Meath, had argued their surrender would constitute an abuse of process due to the substantial delay in seeking their extradition. Mr Justice Patrick McGrath rejected both applications, finding no evidence to suggest either man would be denied a fair trial in Northern Ireland. McNicholl and O'Kane face charges arising from the investigation into the death of Constable Robert John McPherson, shot dead in County Derry on 26 July 1975. Both men escaped from the Maze Prison in May 1976 before trial proceedings commenced. The matter was adjourned to 3 April, with both men remanded on continuing bail pending their surrender.
In a High Court hearing, Web Summit co‑founder Paddy Cosgrave is accused by lawyers of attempting to blackmail former director Daire Hickey into surrendering his shares. The case involves a multi‑million‑euro dispute between Cosgrave and minority shareholders Hickey and David Kelly. Cosgrave is suing Kelly for alleged breach of duty, while Hickey and Kelly claim minority shareholder oppression and breach of a profit‑sharing agreement. Counsel for Cosgrave alleges that Kelly created a rival tech investment fund, whereas counsel for Hickey argues that Cosgrave spent company money to defend himself in these proceedings, with legal costs potentially reaching €7 million. The court heard that Cosgrave received a €1 million sign‑on bonus in April last year and that his remuneration increased dramatically during the period when Hickey was denied basic financial information. The case is scheduled to last nine weeks before Mr Justice Michael Twomey.
Three female students – Margaret Eyong Taku, Wendy Briggs and Christina Igweze – have taken a joint High Court challenge against their expulsions from Dundalk Institute of Technology. They allege that the college imposed disproportionate sanctions without providing reasons or considering alternative measures. The expulsions followed four alleged violent altercations between the students, three on campus and one off campus, that took place on 30 and 31 January 2024. The incidents involved physical aggression, including a head stomp, a wet‑floor warning sign, and the pulling out of hair. A disciplinary committee recommended expulsion in February 2024, and an Appeals Committee rejected the students' appeals in April. The students were granted judicial review in July 2024. At the High Court hearing, counsel argued that the appeals committee failed to explain its decision and that the sanctions were disproportionate. The judge said he would reserve judgment.
The High Court has ruled that Michelle Keane, an unsuccessful Independent Dáil candidate in Kerry, is out of time to challenge the November 2024 General Election result. Ms Keane, of Talbot Bridge, Knocknagoshel, claimed she witnessed ballots being torn from boxes at the Toureencahill polling station. She sought an order to release the marked register of electors and halt the destruction of election documents, naming the Clerk of the Dáil, the Irish Government, and Returning Officer Padraig Burke as respondents. Mr Justice Garrett Simons refused leave to present the election petition, noting that the 14-day limit under the Electoral Act 1992 had expired. The election was declared on November 30, 2024, but Ms Keane's application was not moved until March 7. The judge stated that Ms Keane was aware of her complaint on the night of the poll and that this was not a case of concealed fraud. He described her as "entirely unsuccessful" in the proceedings. Separately, last December, Ms Keane was jailed at Listowel Circuit Civil Court for refusing to comply with an injunction order prohibiting her from posting online about Listowel Garda Sergeant Melanie Walsh. She was released by Killarney Circuit Civil Court on December 13 after signing an undertaking to desist from such postings.
Michelle Keane, an unsuccessful Independent candidate in the Kerry General Election, appeared before the High Court to seek the setting aside of the election result. She alleged that she witnessed ballot papers being torn from boxes at a polling station on November 29, 2024, and requested access to the marked register of electors under the Electoral Act 1992. Mr Justice Garret Simons noted that any petition against an election should have been initiated within 28 days of polling day, which had passed. He reserved his judgment until Tuesday. Separately, regarding a distinct matter, Ms Keane was jailed at Listowel Circuit Civil Court on December 11 for refusing to comply with an injunction order prohibiting her from posting online about Listowel Garda Sergeant Melanie Walsh. This followed a July order from Ennis Circuit Civil Court requiring the removal of such posts. Although Ms Keane submitted an affidavit claiming she was not in breach, the court found otherwise. She was subsequently released by Killarney Circuit Civil Court on December 13 after signing an undertaking to desist from making further online statements about the sergeant.
In a High Court hearing on 6 March 2025, Mr Justice Alex Owens awarded legal costs to Ms Nikita Hand's counsel after Conor McGregor was found civilly liable for her rape. Owens described McGregor as "the author of his own misfortune" for reposting online comments that suggested the CCTV footage used at the trial might be shared. The judge noted McGregor had sworn he had not disseminated the footage, had deleted it, and had complied with court orders to destroy or return all case materials. Owens ordered McGregor to destroy or return all materials in his possession and to swear an affidavit confirming the deletion of all copies. The costs order was deemed inevitable, and a stay was placed pending McGregor's appeal of the jury's verdict. The jury had awarded €248,000 in damages to Ms Hand.
In a High Court hearing on 5 March 2025, Mark Keane, a former Limerick hurler aged 43, presented a personal injury claim against Johnson & Johnson Vision Care (Ireland) for an incident at their Plassey plant in September 2018. Keane, who was working as a technician making contact lenses, alleges the company was negligent and breached its duty of care, failing to provide a safe place and system of work. He claims the incident caused nerve damage and injury to his right hand, and seeks damages for sustained, continuous and severe personal injury, loss, damage, inconvenience and expense. Johnson & Johnson accepted responsibility for the hand injury but not for a shoulder injury. Keane's wife, Karen, testified that the accident has profoundly altered his mental and physical state, affecting their marriage, family life and his mental health.
A former Limerick hurler, Mark Keane, aged 43, is pursuing a personal injuries claim against Johnson & Johnson Vision Care (Ireland) for a workplace accident that occurred on 10 September 2018 at the company's plant in the National Technological Park, Plassey, County Limerick. Keane alleges the company was negligent and breached its duty of care while he was working as a technician making contact lenses, resulting in a frozen shoulder and damage to his hand. He has undergone surgery and has been in pain, describing the injuries as "emasculated and mentally destroyed." The High Court heard that the case has already seen three days of evidence. Mr. Keane's lawyers, HOMS Assist, argue the incident caused sustained, continuous and severe personal injury, loss, damage, inconvenience and expense. Johnson & Johnson's counsel, Murray Johnson SC, accepted responsibility for the nerve damage and hand injury but denied liability for the shoulder injury.
Christopher Doyle, a 34‑year‑old aircraft technician at Dublin Aerospace Ltd, was suspended from his airport identity card after a failed security intelligence check in November 2024. He claims the check was linked to a video he recorded in December 2023, in which another employee praised Gerard 'The Monk' Hutch during the 2024 General Election. Doyle says he shared the clip privately via WhatsApp but did not post it publicly; the video later appeared on Instagram, X and TikTok. He has no criminal convictions and asserts no family or associates have links to criminality. Doyle appealed the suspension on December 5, 2024, but received no reasons for the failure and was placed on unpaid leave. He is seeking a judicial review and a mandamus order to compel the Dublin Airport Authority, the Minister for Justice and Garda Síochána to complete his appeal. The High Court has adjourned the case to April 1, 2025, after refusing an ex‑parte hearing.
In a High Court hearing, former Limerick hurler Mark Keane, aged 43, presented evidence in a personal injuries claim against Johnson & Johnson Vision Care (Ireland). He alleged that on 10 September 2018, while working as a technician at the company's plant in the National Technological Park, Plassey, a co‑worker's arm was caught in machinery. Keane ran to help but was unable to free the colleague, and in the process his own right hand was caught, resulting in a severe deformity of his little finger. He described ongoing pain that radiates up his arm to his neck and back down, and stated he has not worked since the incident. Keane claims the company was negligent and breached its duty of care, seeking damages. He also noted that the company stopped paying him in December 2022, leaving him on an invalidity pension and unable to secure new employment. The case is scheduled to continue next week.
In a High Court hearing on 27 February 2025, former Limerick hurler Mark Keane, aged 43, claimed he suffered severe injuries while assisting a coworker at a Johnson & Johnson Vision care plant in Plassey. Keane, who worked as a technician making contact lenses, said that on 10 September 2018 a colleague's arm was caught in a machine. He ran to help, but his own hand became trapped in the machinery's internal grating, bending his little finger backwards. Keane held the machine's lid and plate ajar for 30–60 seconds until colleagues used a crowbar to free the coworker. He alleged the incident caused sustained, continuous injury to his hand, elbow and back, leaving him with a frozen shoulder, pain along his arm and loss of grip. His lawyers argued Johnson & Johnson breached their duty of care and failed to provide a safe workplace. The case remains pending.
In the High Court, a case brought by six animal welfare charities against the State regarding regulations for XL Bully dogs was settled. Sunniva McDonagh SC, representing My Lovely Horse Rescue, Clare Animal Welfare, Working Animal Guardians, Dogs Angels Ireland, Wicklow Animal Welfare, and the Haven Rescue, informed Ms Justice Sara Phelan that the matter had been resolved. Shelley Horan BL, for the State, confirmed the settlement and indicated that amendments to the controversial regulations would be made. Counsel for the applicants proposed that the case be struck out on consent, with an order for the plaintiff's costs, though both orders could be postponed. They requested that the existing injunction preventing the Department of Rural Development from seizing or euthanising dogs remain in place until final orders are made four weeks after the promulgation of the amended regulations. Ms Justice Phelan adjourned the matter for mention on April 29. The case challenged regulations that would have allowed agents to seize or euthanise XL Bully dogs in the care of animal welfare organisations. Previously, Mr Justice John Jordan granted an injunction against these regulations, citing the lack of a review mechanism for breed assessments. Under the proposed rules, owners found in breach of the 1986 Control of Dogs Act by keeping an XL Bully without an exemption certificate face potential seizure and euthanasia of the animal, alongside imprisonment of up to three months, a fine of up to €2,500, or both.
Garda Nicholas Keogh, aged 46, has been granted permission by the High Court to pursue a judicial review against the Garda Commissioner over the reduction of his sick pay. Keogh, who joined the force in June 1999, had not taken sick leave until October 2011. He suffered a musculo‑skeletal injury in 2012, followed by periods of alcohol addiction treatment and work‑related stress diagnoses in 2012, 2013 and 2014. He claims that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission failed to address his complaints of bullying, harassment and unfitness for work, and that his salary was reduced during his sick leave. The Disclosures Tribunal in July 2021 found his complaints unjustified, but Keogh seeks to quash the Commissioner's decision to end the special arrangement that allowed him full pay and to have his illness recorded as ordinary illness. Mr Justice Garrett Simons granted leave for the hearing, which is adjourned to 25 March.
Lawyers for senior Garda civilian manager Bridget Casey‑Mulligan claim anonymity directions are being misused by the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). They intend to seek a High Court injunction to stop the WRC's order that the press cannot name the senior official who is the subject of a dignity‑at‑work complaint. Casey‑Mulligan's case, which involves alleged whistleblower penalisation and unlawful pay deductions, was scheduled for a second hearing day but she did not attend. Her barrister, David Byrnes, presented a medical certificate citing severe stress from the WRC proceedings. The WRC adjudicator, Máire Mulcahy, noted that the case could proceed with public hearings if no mediation occurs. Byrnes argued that anonymity should be granted for the senior official, Mr Y, who is no longer with the Gardaí, and that the WRC's direction to the press is "scandalous." The adjudicator said she would consider preliminary matters and that the case could be paused until a stenographer arrived.
A 23‑year‑old man, accused of possessing child abuse material when he was a minor, has applied for a judicial review of a decision by the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme that he is unsuitable for entry because the offence is deemed too serious. He was charged at 18 and a search warrant was executed at his home in January 2020. His counsel, Breffni Gordon, argues that the three‑and‑a‑half‑year delay between the search and the programme's decision was excessive and that the applicant was not properly informed about the seriousness of the offence or the criteria for admission. The applicant claims he chose the programme after admitting the offence, but was later told he was unsuitable. The High Court granted leave to pursue the review, stayed the criminal proceedings, and adjourned the case to 18 March 2025.
In a High Court hearing on 20 February 2025, the case concerning the closure of a historic Franciscan church in Clonmel was struck out after the Abbey House Prayer Group ended its illegal sit‑in. The group had occupied the Friary Church since New Year's Eve 2024, protesting the Franciscan Order's decision to close the 13th‑century building. The prayer group had previously been allowed temporary use of the church under a May 2023 agreement. Mr Justice Brian Cregan had sought an undertaking from Patrick O'Gorman, the group's chairman, that the sit‑in would cease. O'Gorman confirmed the group would vacate the church by midnight 23 January, acknowledging the protest was illegal. After receiving this undertaking, the judge struck out the case without further orders, recognising the church's imminent closure as a "devastating loss" to the prayer group.
In a High Court hearing on 19 February 2025, Judge Alexander Owens confronted Celtic Tiger restaurateur Marcus Sweeney, 47, over his attempts to re‑enter a settled Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) case concerning EWM Property Holdings Ltd's acquisition of Co Meath land. Owens described Sweeney as "up to his oxters" for associating with organised crime figures and reiterated that the CAB had already settled the case. Sweeney insisted it was not settled, but the judge dismissed his submissions, stating he had no "hint nor hair" of what Sweeney sought. Owens warned that a duty guard would remove Sweeney for being a nuisance and that any new application would require proper affidavits and a notice of motion. Sweeney left the courtroom after the judge's refusal to entertain his claims. The judge had previously issued interlocutory orders under the Proceeds of Crime Act 1996 regarding the property.
The High Court has adjourned an application by Dublin City Council for a court-ordered inspection of a Georgian building at 55 Amiens Street, formerly the home of 1916 Rising leader Tom Clarke. The matter, heard before Mr Justice Brian Cregan, was delayed for one week to allow the twelve occupants to discuss the terms of the proposed inspection and to avoid a potential "stand-off" with council staff. Jem Cleaver, the only named defendant among the occupants, told the court that while some residents had no objection to the inspection, others were uncertain, noting that the group deals with matters by consensus. The council seeks to inspect the 1790s property for damages caused by Storm Éowyn or the occupants. Although the occupants have accepted a requirement to vacate the heritage site by May 12, they opposed the inspection, citing privacy concerns and fears of prejudice on housing lists. Counsel for the council, Gavin Mooney SC, stated that no such prejudice would occur. Mr Justice Cregan indicated he was inclined to make an order allowing an engineer and architect to visually inspect common areas, three bedrooms, the roof, and the garden. He criticized the situation where Ms Cleaver had to face the proceedings alone, stating, "There is no reason you alone should be sent out before the fire." The judge invited the other occupants to attend the next hearing to discuss the terms, emphasizing that the proposed order was reasonable.
The Court of Appeal has reserved its judgment in an appeal brought by the State against a High Court decision regarding an action filed by Independent Senator Gerard Craughwell. Sen Craughwell alleges that a secret international agreement exists allowing the RAF to intercept rogue aircraft in Irish airspace, claiming such an arrangement is unconstitutional unless approved by referendum. The State, represented by Brian Kennedy SC, argued that the claims are political rather than legal and therefore not justiciable. Counsel for the State contended that the plaintiff's pleadings contained only "bare assertions" without sufficient factual basis to meet the threshold for trial, noting that the State could neither confirm nor deny the alleged security arrangements due to sensitive policy. Conversely, Gerard Humphreys, counsel for Sen Craughwell, argued that the existence of an arrangement requiring constitutional approval was evident from previous Dáil statements by then-Taoiseach Bertie Ahern. He maintained that the Government's failure to control airspace breached the Constitution and requested the court to force the State to admit or deny the existence of a treaty. The three-judge panel, including Mr Justice Charles Meenan, heard these arguments on the preliminary issue of justiciability. If the State succeeds, the case will fall before a full hearing. The court has reserved its judgment on this appeal.
A 55-year-old man has appealed to the Court of Appeal against a High Court decision that he should face trial for a single count of alleged indecent assault committed between January 1987 and December 1988. The appellant, represented by Michael O'Higgins SC, argued that the delay in prosecution caused prejudice due to deceased witnesses and that his severe anxiety and suicidal ideation constituted exceptional circumstances preventing a fair trial. He contended that the High Court judge, Ms Justice Marguerite Bolger, erred in preferring a GP report over a psychological report that documented his suicidal ideation and a plan to crash his car. The State, represented by Kieran Kelly BL, countered that the trial court was the appropriate forum to assess fairness and noted that the appellant's anxiety was linked to other factors. Presiding Judge John Edwards highlighted inconsistencies between the reports regarding the suicidal ideation. The Court of Appeal has reserved its judgment, meaning the matter was adjourned and remains unresolved.
At the High Court, counsel for Nikita Hand alleged that Conor McGregor is in breach of a court order regarding the dissemination of CCTV footage from their civil trial. Mr Justice Alexander Owens adjourned the matter to March 6 to allow time to consider an affidavit sworn by Mr McGregor. The judge had previously ordered Mr McGregor to destroy or hand over all case materials and directed him to ensure his business associate, Gabriel Ernesto Rapisarda, also refrained from sharing the footage. Hand's counsel, John Gordon SC, described Mr McGregor's affidavit as "entirely inadequate" and raised concerns about his bona fides, while reserving the right to apply to cross-examine him. Remy Farrell SC, for Mr McGregor, did not object to the adjournment. This follows a November ruling where a jury awarded Ms Hand €248,000 in damages, finding Mr McGregor liable for rape. The jury found co-accused James Lawrence not liable for the assault. The court ordered interim payments of €100,000 in damages and €200,000 in costs to Ms Hand, with the remainder stayed. The judge noted the civil trial was over and the jury had conclusively determined the verdict.
Six animal welfare organisations—Clare Animal Welfare, Working Animal Guardians, Dogs Angels Ireland, Wicklow Animal Welfare, Haven Rescue, and My Lovely Horse Rescue—have sought a High Court injunction to halt the impending ban on owning XL Bully dogs. The applicants allege that Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys failed to publish the reasons for deeming the breed a public danger. They argue the regulations are 'overly broad,' 'void for uncertainty,' and lack appropriate safeguards, such as the height-based exceptions and appeals process present in the UK ban. The ban, which makes it a criminal offence to own an XL Bully without an exemption certificate, is due to come into force on Saturday. Breaches can result in the seizure and euthanasia of the animal, as well as imprisonment or fines for the owner. In an affidavit, My Lovely Horse Rescue co-founder Martina Kenny stated the charity has seen a substantial increase in surrender requests, with up to 10 per day, and noted that the lack of an appeals process is 'most concerning' given the regulations are 'confusing and ambiguous.' The charities claim the definition of an XL Bully is 'artificial.' The matter is at the sentence stage, where the court action seeks injunctive relief against the State. The Judicial Review hearing is adjourned to go before Mr Justice John Jordan at the High Court tomorrow at 11am.
Dan O'Connor, a Kerry coroner and solicitor, has obtained High Court permission to pursue a judicial review against the Minister for Justice. He argues that the December 13, 2024 decision to amalgamate the four Kerry coronial districts—North, West, South, and East—was unlawful and that the appointment of Aisling Quilter as coroner for all four districts was invalid. O'Connor was appointed deputy coroner for West Kerry in November 2020 and for North Kerry in November 2024. He claims that the Minister, after confirming his appointment as coroner for North and West Kerry, informed him on December 16, 2024, that the South and East Kerry coroner would become sole coroner for all districts, citing a "vacancy" that he says was fabricated. He seeks a High Court order quashing the amalgamation decision, the appointment of Quilter, and a declaration that he is the legitimate coroner for North and West Kerry.
Retired labour inspector George McLoughlin is seeking a High Court review of a decision by the Office of the Protected Disclosures Commissioner not to investigate his complaints of alleged serious wrongdoing at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). Mr McLoughlin, who worked for the National Employment Rights Authority from 2008 to 2017, claims he submitted three protected disclosures between 2015 and 2017 alleging that senior officials colluded to prevent investigations and penalised him. He named the Standards in Public Office Commission (Sipo) and Minister Frances Fitzgerald as notice parties. Sipo closed his complaints in March 2023, stating the subject matter lacked sufficient gravity. Subsequently, the Commissioner's office closed a fourth disclosure in July 2024, citing a lack of prima facie evidence. Mr McLoughlin is seeking to quash this decision and order the report to be transmitted to an independent person for follow-up. At the High Court this week, Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty adjourned the matter to March 25. She directed Mr McLoughlin to serve all materials in his possession to the three parties involved. The matter was adjourned and is not concluded.
A liquidator, Myles Kirby of Kirby Chartered Accountants, was appointed by Mr Justice Oisín Quinn to wind up Chequer Catering Ltd, the company behind Dublin's Green Hen restaurant, after the High Court confirmed a €1.8 million deficit. Kirby had previously served as provisional liquidator. The court noted the restaurant lacked a fire safety certificate and had been without a liquor licence for over two years. Revenue's Dermot Cahill SC highlighted the company's debt of €751,266.01, covering PAYE, PRSI, USC, LPT, corporation tax and VAT from December 2019 onward. An interim examiner had been appointed by the Circuit Court on 13 December, but the company withdrew its protection application. Executive officer Philip Byrne's affidavit stressed Revenue's concern over the company's inability to pay its debts, deeming a full liquidation just and equitable.
In a 2025 appeal, the Court of Appeal overturned a High Court award of damages to Kristina Kandourova, a 44‑year‑old pregnant woman who fell on a concrete kerb at a Circle K forecourt in Dublin in 2016. Kandourova had stopped at the station for coffee, had previously visited the site, and claimed the kerb—described as a 'nib pavement'—was an unnecessary hazard. The High Court had found that the blocked footpath forced her to cross the kerb, constituting negligence on the part of Circle K. The Court of Appeal, however, held that the kerb was a commonplace feature found in many forecourts and that there was no evidence it was an unusual danger. Justice Seamus Noonan ruled that the plaintiff could not be said to have taken reasonable care in failing to see the kerb, and the appeal was allowed, returning the case to the High Court.
In a High Court hearing on 17 January 2025, a vulnerable man in his fifties who has long‑term health needs settled a personal injury action against a care facility, a Dublin hospital and the Health Service Executive for €325,000. The claim arose from a broken femur sustained after the man was transferred from the care unit to an emergency department on 27 October 2018, admitted until 2 November 2018, and then returned to the care unit where bruising was noted. He was subsequently readmitted to the hospital, where a femur fracture requiring surgery was discovered. The plaintiff alleged that the care unit, the hospital and the HSE failed to exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence in diagnosing, treating and managing his condition, and that they ignored his history of falls, poor balance and communication difficulties. The settlement comprised €200,000 in general damages and €125,000 in special damages, and was approved by Mr Justice Paul Coffey.
A Palestinian man in his 40s, who fled war and has been sleeping rough for ten months, has been granted a judicial review hearing by the High Court. He seeks placement in international protection accommodation and a vulnerability assessment, claiming PTSD and worsening mental health due to homelessness amid rising criminality and anti‑immigrant sentiment in Dublin. The applicant, represented by barrister Keivon Sotoodeh of Patrick J Sweeney Solicitors, argues that the Minister for Children, Equality, Integration and Youth and the state have failed to fulfil EU‑mandated duties under the EU Regulations and Reception Conditions Directive. He requests an order compelling the Minister to provide material reception conditions, including accommodation and a timely vulnerability assessment, and a declaration that the Minister's alleged failure is unlawful and breaches his rights to dignity, humane treatment and family life. The High Court adjourned the case to the following day.
A married Ukrainian couple, living under temporary protection in an Irish hotel since April 2022, have applied for a High Court judicial review after the Department of Social Protection denied them additional social welfare payments. Their disability allowance (€208 per week for the wife) and carer's allowance (€224 per week for the husband) were withdrawn on 9 September 2024 when the State reclassified their accommodation as "designated" because they were in a State hotel. The couple claims the withdrawal was unjustified as there was no material change in their circumstances, and that the Department failed to consider their severe medical conditions – the wife's neurological condition and wheelchair use, and the husband's high blood pressure, diabetes and weight issues – in breach of Section 201 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 2005.
Diarmuid Phelan, a law professor and farmer, was accused of murdering Keith Conlon by shooting him in the back of the head on his farm. During a March 2022 High Court bail hearing, the State opposed release, citing flight risk. Phelan, appearing via video-link from Cloverhill Prison, denied any intention to evade justice. The court heard he held significant assets, including farms in Wexford and Tallaght, and was a US citizen. Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy refused bail, finding him a serious flight risk with a powerful incentive to evade justice. Phelan subsequently appealed to the Court of Appeal. Mr Justice George Birmingham noted Phelan had left the High Court judge "totally in the dark" regarding his finances. The Court of Appeal granted bail, requiring a personal bond of €50,000 and an independent surety of €50,000. Phelan's murder trial later opened before Ms Justice Siobhan Lankford. He did not take the stand to give evidence in his defence. The prosecution suggested he was a skilled shooter, while his defence included a US firearms expert. The report details his professional background, financial arrangements, and the procedural history of his bail application and subsequent trial proceedings.
In a High Court hearing on 20 December 2024, the court appointed Myles Kirby as provisional liquidator for Chequer Catering Limited, the company behind Dublin's Green Hen restaurant. The company was declared insolvent, with a €1.8 million deficit and a debt of €751,266.01 to Revenue covering PAYE, PRSI, USC, LPT, corporation tax and VAT from December 2019. Chequer had no fire safety certificate and had been without a liquor licence since September 2022, yet its creditors include wine suppliers. The court, hearing an ex‑parte application from Revenue, ordered the appointment of the provisional liquidator and adjourned the case to 27 January to allow a petition for winding up to be filed. The company's directors are Frank Gleeson of Churchtown and Ciara Fox of Celbridge. The provisional liquidator will oversee the company's affairs pending a formal winding‑up application.
A mother of five has told the High Court that a council property in Carrick-on-Shannon, County Leitrim, has caused her to fear for her children's safety due to reported paranormal activity. Louise Stokes, along with her husband Thomas, had initially sought to challenge Leitrim County Council's housing decisions regarding their previous residence at Mount Temple, where they alleged severe mould problems posed health risks to their family. The council subsequently offered alternative accommodation, which the family accepted in October. However, Ms Stokes informed Mr Justice Garrett Simons that since moving to the new property, objects have moved unexpectedly and doors have shifted on their own. She stated she contacted the council about her concerns but felt dismissed. Mr Justice Simons struck out the Stokes' claim, finding it related only to the original property. He acknowledged her concerns regarding the second house but indicated that any further housing application would require a separate submission to the local authority.
In a landmark insolvency claim, the State was ordered to pay €2.84 million into the pension fund of former Protim Abrasives Ltd employees. The claim, brought by Kieran Wallace of Interpath Advisory, challenged the State's refusal to contribute a larger sum to the scheme in 2022. The tribunal found that the relevant contribution at the time of the company's 2009 liquidation was €3.7 million, not the €6.1 million later sought. After accounting for €876,000 recovered in liquidation, the adjudicator ruled the Minister for Enterprise must pay €2.84 million. The decision highlighted that capital contributions to a defined‑benefit pension can be treated as relevant contributions under the 1984 Act, and that the State could not justify the larger figure as a "coach and four" through the legislation. The ruling affirms the State's liability to fund the pension deficit.
Cllr Paul Hogan, Cllr Aengus O'Rourke, and Cllr John Dolan welcomed a High Court adjournment in their challenge to a plan to house approximately 1,000 male asylum seekers in tented accommodation in Athlone. The applicants alleged that the ministerial process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures, claiming deficiencies in environmental screening, wastewater assessment, and traffic impact analysis. At the hearing, counsel for Cllr Hogan stated that the State had conceded the case, resulting in the development being classified as unauthorised. However, the applicants maintained that substantive environmental and planning issues remained unaddressed. Mr Justice Richard Humphreys adjourned the matter to January 27 to allow for further detailed consideration of these wider grounds. The State confirmed that works on the Lissywollen site would cease on December 20, though the site would remain in operation pending a final court determination. The councillors, including Mayor Frankie Keena, stated that the adjournment provides an opportunity to have their broader concerns heard in full by the High Court.
A Dublin City Centre Traders Alliance, led by solicitor Noel Smyth, has been granted leave to seek a judicial review of traffic restrictions imposed by Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority. The alliance, which includes owners of city‑centre car parks and members of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, argues that the traffic‑calming measures on Liffey quays—such as bans on private vehicles between 7 am and 7 pm—were adopted beyond the council's powers and will cost the city nearly €400 million. The traders' July 2024 report predicts a €141 million drop in retail spending by 2028 and a loss of over 6,000 jobs, amounting to an adverse monetary impact of €390 million. They seek orders quashing the July 2024 adoption of the Dublin City Centre Transport Plan, the council's subsequent orders on implementation and signage, and claim the council acted ultra vires and without a required environmental impact assessment.
The Government has conceded a High Court challenge brought by Cllr Paul Hogan against a plan to house approximately 1,000 male asylum seekers in Athlone. At the hearing, Oisin SC, representing Mr. Hogan, informed Mr Justice Richard Humphreys that the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability and Youth conceded the case, stating the development would be classified as unauthorised. Ms Aoife Carroll SC, for the State, indicated the matter could be put in for mention on Thursday, pending instructions from the Minister. Mr. Hogan, who secured 4.8 per cent of first preference votes in the recent General Election, alleged the ministerial process was unlawful, irrational, and breached fair procedures. The challenge was supported by Athlone-based representatives, including TD Kevin 'Boxer' Moran, councillors Frankie Keena and Aengus O'Rourke of Fianna Fáil, and John Dolan of Fine Gael. Mr. Hogan sought to pause or quash the statutory instrument that confirmed the project did not require An Bord Pleanála approval and that specific EU environmental assessments were unnecessary. He claimed the Minister failed to adequately screen for environmental impacts, citing deficiencies in wastewater and traffic assessments, and argued the plan would cause significant traffic hazards and health and safety issues. He further alleged a lack of prior consultation with local councillors and that the development would be prejudicial to public health. Minister for Integration Roderick O'Gorman had contested the case. The matter was adjourned for mention on Thursday.
Ryanair's defamation case against a former pilot is being considered for joining with its ongoing legal action against Channel 4 over a 2013 broadcast. The High Court was informed that the airline is suing Channel 4 and Blakeway Productions Limited for a programme that raised concerns about fuel levels in Ryanair flights in 2012. Ryanair claims the broadcast made 'false and defamatory' allegations, which it says damage its reputation and safety record. The programme featured anonymous pilots expressing concerns about the airline's fuel policy. Following the broadcast, a veteran pilot with 25 years of service had his employment terminated. His legal representative argued that the pilot should be included in the existing proceedings, as he was a contributor to the programme and a former Ryanair employee. The judge indicated a willingness to join the matters and adjourned the case to be next mentioned on January 28.
Former Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams has secured a trial date for his High Court defamation action against the BBC. Mr Adams, aged 76, alleges that the broadcaster falsely claimed he sanctioned the killing of Denis Donaldson in Glenties, County Donegal in 2006. The allegations were made in a 2016 BBC Spotlight programme and a subsequent article on the BBC website. Mr Adams denies any involvement in Mr Donaldson's death. The BBC denies defamation, contending the programme and publication were made in good faith and constituted responsible journalism following careful investigation. Mr Justice Alexander Owens fixed the case for trial on 29 April 2025 at the Four Courts in Dublin, with proceedings expected to last up to three weeks. The action follows preliminary hearings and discovery disputes that delayed the case.
In a High Court hearing, Shannon Judd of Cox's Demesne, Dundalk, challenged the prosecution of an alleged €43 theft of potted plants from Costcutter Supermarket, Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, on 23 December 2022. Judd, who could not recall being in the shop that day, sought disclosure of CCTV footage and witness statements. While a shop worker and Garda Declan Ward claimed to have identified her from CCTV, the footage was never provided. The Garda's claim that the footage existed was denied, and the prosecution proceeded based on the worker's and Garda's testimony. Judd's solicitor, Peter Lavery, argued that the absence of the CCTV evidence and the time elapsed prejudiced her case, and that the judge's suggestion of a lenient outcome if she pleaded guilty was improper. The High Court granted permission for a judicial review on 21 January, with Lily Buckley BL representing Judd.
The Director of Public Prosecutions has appealed a High Court decision that upheld the Special Criminal Court's declaration that Michael Connolly, from County Louth, was a victim of miscarriage of justice. Mr Connolly had spent fourteen months in custody following conviction on an IRA membership charge in 2017, based on observations of him driving in convoy in December 2014 in Donegal. His conviction was overturned on appeal in 2018, and he was acquitted following retrial in 2019. The Special Criminal Court later found that belief evidence given by a senior garda breached the "double-counting" rule, as it was based partly on material contained in the book of evidence. The DPP contends the miscarriage finding was unsustainable, arguing there remained a proper evidential basis for prosecution. The Court of Appeal reserved judgement on whether the procedural error constituted a grave defect in administration of justice.