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Judge to rule on Waters and O'Doherty challenge to pandemic laws

Summary

In a High Court judicial review, John Waters and Gemma O'Doherty, representing themselves, seek permission to challenge several Covid‑19 related laws as unconstitutional. They target the 2020 Health Preservation and Protection and Other Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, the 2020 Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act Covid‑19 Act, and the 1947 Health Act (Affected Areas) Order, as well as temporary restriction regulations introduced under the 1947 Health Act. The applicants argue that the legislation and its enactment violate constitutional rights to travel, bodily integrity and the family. The State and lawyers for the Dáil, Seanad and Ceann Comhairle, all notice parties, contend that permission should not be granted. Judge Charles Meenan will decide on Wednesday whether the journalists have an arguable case for a full hearing. The proceedings were conducted with Gardai ensuring social‑distancing measures at the Four Courts complex.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Judge to rule on Waters and O'Doherty challenge to pandemic laws. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• 2020-05-12 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report