Courts / Kilkenny / Report

Minister Phil Hogan sues TV3 for defamation

Date
2014-05-30

Stage
Trial

Primary locality
Kilkenny

Summary

In the High Court, Minister for the Environment and Local Government Phil Hogan is suing TV3 for defamation arising from comments made by broadcaster Vincent Browne on the Tonight with Vincent Browne programme on May 20. The Minister alleges Browne described him as a "bigoted racist" following representations Hogan made regarding housing suitability for a family from the Irish Travelling Community in a vacant council property in Co Kilkenny. Hogan claims the remarks implied he was prejudiced, breached the Incitement to Hatred Act, and were unsuitable for a public representative, causing reputational damage and stress. He seeks damages, a correction order, and the removal of the broadcast from TV3's website. TV3 denies the claims, arguing Browne expressed an honestly held opinion based on the Minister's public statements. During a pretrial motion, Hogan's counsel, Rossa Fanning BL, sought to amend the statement of claim to clarify interactions with Kilkenny County Council, asserting the Minister has "no issues" with the Travelling Community and has advocated for their housing. TV3's counsel, Marcus Dowling, opposed the amendment, arguing it glossed over factual inaccuracies. Justice Paul Gilligan ruled Hogan was entitled to amend his claim, noting he may need to provide a sworn statement regarding variations and could be cross-examined on inconsistencies. The matter was adjourned, with the case listed for a future hearing before a judge and jury.