Courts / Kerry / Report

Court places stay on ethics investigation into Kerry councillor

Date
2021-11-30
Stage
Hearing Or Decision
Primary locality
Dingle
County
Kerry

Summary

The High Court, by Mr Justice Charles Meenan, granted a temporary stay on an ethics investigation into Kerry County Councillor Breandan Fitzgerald of Dingle, who represents the Castleisland‑Corca Dhuibhne area. The investigation, initiated by a complaint earlier in the year, concerns Fitzgerald's vote on a draft local area plan for Corca Dhuibhne. Fitzgerald denies wrongdoing, claiming no interest in the lands and that he had previously abstained on related votes due to family connections. The investigation was originally conducted by the council's Cathaoirleach Jimmy Moloney and Chief Executive Moira Murrell, but the court found the Cathaoirleach's involvement conflicted with the rules. Fitzgerald's counsel, Elizabeth Murphy, intends to seek judicial review to halt the investigation, arguing the CEO's continued participation breaches fair procedure. The stay will remain until the matter returns in two weeks, with the option for the respondent to apply to lift it on 48‑hour notice.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Court places stay on ethics investigation into Kerry councillor. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • The High Court
  • Co Kerry. The High Court
  • High Court
Residence
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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