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"There will be no issue explaining that to any judge," councillor told gardai

Summary

The trial of seven men, including Solidarity TD Paul Murphy and Councillor Michael Murphy, continues at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court before Judge Melanie Greally and a jury. The defendants, who include Kieran Mahon, Frank Donaghy, Ken Purcell, Michael Banks, and Scott Masterson, have all pleaded not guilty to falsely imprisoning former Tanaiste Joan Burton and her adviser Karen O'Connell by restricting their personal liberty without consent at Fortunestown Road, Jobstown, Tallaght, on November 15, 2014. On day 22, the court heard transcripts from Councillor Michael Murphy's February 2015 garda interviews. When shown protest footage, he repeatedly stated the video "speaks for itself" and asserted that the rights of both sides were "balanced." He further told gardaí, "There will be no issue explaining that to any judge," regarding comments about Ms Burton's safety. Detective Garda David Connolly testified to the arrest and interviews. Garda John Healy described being verbally abused by protesters and threatened by two men who attempted to rob him of his wedding ring and equipment. He alleged Paul Murphy displayed a "blatant disregard" for safety and was the most senior person present. The trial is ongoing, with no findings, sentences, or finalisations recorded.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: "There will be no issue explaining that to any judge," councillor told gardai. Charges or matters: falsely imprisoning Ms Burton and her adviser Karen O'Connell by restricting their personal liberty without their consent at Fortunestown Road, Jobstown, Tallaght on November 15, 2014. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• February 2015 Incident
• November 15, 2014 Hearing Or Sentence
• February 9, 2015 Incident
• 2017-05-29 Publication

Why: Gda Healy said he recognised Paul Murphy at the protest because he was a TD. CNI source report

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report