Courts / Ireland / Report

Father accuses State of abandoning daughter amid 'abduction' claim

Summary

An unnamed father, acting as the appellant, appeared before the High Court to seek orders compelling the State to assist in the return of his three-year-old daughter from Poland. The man alleged that his wife took the child to her homeland without his consent, despite a Polish court order for her return. He accused the Irish government of abandoning his rights and failing to act, describing the situation as one of "direct incompetency." The case is currently at the appeal stage, with the Polish children's ombudsman appealing the return order. The father stated he has been separated from his daughter for 586 days and has made 11 attempts to locate her. He brought the action against the Taoiseach, the Minister for Justice, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty described the matter as "extremely sensitive" and an "appalling situation." Counsel for the State, Clare O'Shea BL, noted the Departments of Justice and Foreign Affairs had been involved in various engagements. The court did not conclude the matter; instead, Ms Justice Gearty adjourned the case, fixing October 21 for a full hearing.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Father accuses State of abandoning daughter amid 'abduction' claim. Procedural stage: appeal

When:

• October 21 Hearing Or Sentence
• 2025-10-08 Publication

Case subjects

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Appeal

Read the original CNI report