Principal tells court of feeling 'hunted' by Enoch Burke

A former principal of Wilson's Hospital secondary school in County Westmeath has given evidence in the High Court regarding allegations of misconduct against teacher Enoch Burke. Niamh McShane, who led the school until 2022, described Mr Burke's conduct at a religious service and subsequent dinner in June as disrespectful and unprofessional. Ms McShane said she had sought to accommodate Mr Burke's concerns about a request to staff regarding a student's preferred name and pronouns, but no compromise could be reached. She told the court that Mr Burke's public objections during the service, attended by students, staff and parents, were embarrassing and distressing. At a follow-up dinner, Ms McShane said she felt "hunted" when Mr Burke approached her twice. The school brought disciplinary proceedings against Mr Burke, who denies wrongdoing and claims his suspension was unlawful. The case is before Mr Justice Alexander Owens and continues.