Courts / Ireland / Report

Paddy Cosgrave succeeds in defending costs bid in defamation case

Date
2022-11-28
Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Summary

In a 2022 defamation case, a judge ruled that no costs order should be made against Web Summit co‑founder Paddy Cosgrave, who is sued by businessman Robert Quirke over a 2021 tweet. The tweet, allegedly damaging Quirke's reputation, was about a multi‑million‑euro ventilator deal involving Quirke's company and the HSE. Quirke, CEO of Roqu Group, claims the tweet defamed him and his businesses and seeks damages. Cosgrave denies the allegations, asserting his statement was true. A pretrial motion by Quirke sought judgement in default of defence, arguing Cosgrave's defence was lodged outside the prescribed time limits. The judge found the defence delay unreasonable and awarded Cosgrave all costs related to the motion and the Monday hearing, while Quirke's claim will be heard later.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Paddy Cosgrave succeeds in defending costs bid in defamation case. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

Case subjects

Paddy Cosgrave

Applicant

Outcome: While a defence was subsequently lodged, Mr Quirke was entitled to either the costs of bringing his motion or that the costs be adjourned to the full hearing of the defamation claim.

Web Summit

Applicant

Outcome: While a defence was subsequently lodged, Mr Quirke was entitled to either the costs of bringing his motion or that the costs be adjourned to the full hearing of the defamation claim.

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

Read the original CNI report

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