Courts / Ireland / Report

Girl launches High Court action over participation in dancing qualifiers

Summary

UK-based Ella McCarthy, a 12-year-old applicant, has launched High Court proceedings against An Coimisiun Le Rinci Gaelacha (CLRG) to challenge a six-month competition suspension. The suspension was imposed because Ella switched dancing teachers following her expulsion from a London school, triggering CLRG rules that require a six-month restyling period before a pupil can compete under a new registered teacher. McCarthy's counsel, Gerard Meehan BL, stated the action is a last resort after the CLRG refused an exemption application, arguing it is unfair to punish a child for an adult dispute. The applicant seeks an injunction to allow her to participate in the upcoming Irish Dancing World Championships qualifying round, which she claims she would otherwise miss, potentially affecting her ability to defend her previous world medal and her 2019 qualification status. The matter came before Mr Justice Paul Gilligan, who granted permission on an ex-parte basis to serve short notice of the proceedings on the CLRG. The case was adjourned and made returnable to Thursday's sitting of the High Court.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Girl launches High Court action over participation in dancing qualifiers. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• 2017-10-25 Publication

Why: The High Court heard on Wednesday that through no fault of her own Ella, of Kranlee House, St Andrews Park, Burnetts Lane, Horton Heath in Southampton has been suspended from competition for six months because she had to switch dancing teachers. Court evidence reported by CNI

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report