Courts / Cork / Report

Dave Fanning sues Microsoft over news story wrongly linking him to trial

Summary

Broadcaster Dave Fanning has begun defamation proceedings against Microsoft's news service and a Hong Kong website after his picture appeared in an article that wrongly claimed he faced trial for alleged sexual misconduct with a child under 12. The article, titled "Prominent Irish Broadcaster faces trial over alleged sexual misconduct," was published by BNN on 11 October and also appeared on Microsoft's News Service MSN. Fanning, who was not involved in the trial— which concerned another broadcaster later acquitted— argues the piece made false and damaging statements, portraying him as a criminal and paedophile. The article was removed the day after publication. Fanning seeks damages and has obtained High Court permission to serve the action on BNN, Microsoft Operations Ireland Ltd, and Microsoft Corporation. The court has adjourned part of the application to clarify whether the article was published outside Ireland or in jurisdictions controlled by Microsoft's U.S. parent. The case is currently at the High Court hearing stage.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Dave Fanning sues Microsoft over news story wrongly linking him to trial. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• October 11th Hearing Or Sentence
• 2024-01-15 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report