Courts / Ireland / Report

Dancing action adjourned to allow consideration of rule exemption

Date
2017-10-26

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Summary

A High Court action brought by UK-based Ella McCarthy, a 12-year-old applicant, against An Coimisiun Le Rinci Gaelacha (CLRG) was adjourned to November 7th. McCarthy, represented by her mother Kristy Blair McCarthy, sought an injunction to allow her to compete in a world championship qualifier. She alleged that CLRG rules prevented her from competing for six months after she switched teachers in July, a change resulting from a dispute between her mother and a London dancing school. McCarthy's counsel described the proceedings as a last resort, arguing it was unfair for a child to be penalised for an adult dispute. CLRG counsel, Mr Peter Bland SC, stated the six-month period was not a suspension but a rule designed to prevent undue pressure on children switching teachers. The parties reached an accommodation whereby a CLRG subcommittee would consider McCarthy's application for an exemption. The judge, Mr Justice Paul Gilligan, adjourned the case to allow this subcommittee to make its decision. He noted he was prepared to hear the injunction application on the return date if necessary. The matter was not concluded or finalised; it remains pending the subcommittee's review.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Dancing action adjourned to allow consideration of rule exemption. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

November 7th Adjournment
2017-10-26 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, is not allowed compete for six months because she had to switch dancing teachers last July. Court evidence reported by CNI