Courts / Ireland / Report

Reserved judgement in deportation challenge brought by alleged ISIL activist

Date
2016-03-18

Stage
Hearing Or Decision

Summary

The High Court has reserved its judgment in a deportation challenge brought by an unidentified man alleged to be involved with Islamic State (ISIL) extremists. The respondent, who has resided in Ireland since 2000, denies State claims that he consulted with senior violent extremist leaders, poses a national security threat, or recruited for ISIL. He argues that deportation to Jordan would breach Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights due to a risk of torture, citing past abuse in the 1990s. The State, represented by Conor Power SC, opposed the action, asserting that the Minister properly considered all evidence before issuing the deportation order. Power highlighted inconsistencies in the man's asylum applications, noting he did not mention torture in his 2000 application and had subsequently sought consular assistance from Jordan. The man's counsel, David Leonard BL, argued that Jordan's treatment of suspected extremists and the interrogation of the man's family members demonstrated a credible risk. Following a four-day hearing, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys reserved his decision on Friday. The judge indicated he hopes to deliver the judgment soon, and the matter is scheduled to be mentioned before him in April.