Courts / Ireland / Report

Report by former Chief Justice supports Dwyer's claim, High Court told

Date
2018-02-21
Stage
Appeal

Summary

The High Court heard evidence on the second day of Graham Dwyer's challenge against the Garda Commissioner and the State, which seeks to strike down provisions of the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011. Dwyer, who was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2015 after a jury found him guilty of the murder of childcare worker Elaine O'Hara, claims the Act breaches his privacy rights under the European Charter, Irish Constitution, and the European Convention on Human Rights. He argues that evidence gathered under the Act should not have been used against him during his trial. Counsel for Dwyer cited a report by former Chief Justice John Murray, who stated the 2011 Act amounts to mass surveillance contrary to EU legislation. The respondents deny the claims, asserting Dwyer is not entitled to the declarations sought. Dwyer's appeal against his conviction remains pending before the Court of Appeal. The hearing continues.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Report by former Chief Justice supports Dwyer's claim, High Court told. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

Case subjects

Chief Justice

Defendant

Graham Dwyer

Applicant

Outcome: In 2015 Dwyer was sentenced to life imprisonment after the jury found guilty of the childcare worker's murder.

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • High Court
  • Court of Appeal

Topics

Stage Appeal Violent Crime

Read the original CNI report

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