Michael Murray and Rose agree to leave unauthorised house

This report is a localnews.ie summary based on public court reporting and records; sources are listed below.

Michael Murray and his wife Rose reached an agreement concerning their house built without planning permission. The motion came before Mr Justice Charles Meenan in the High Court on 24 September 2020.

The judge heard that the couple would remain for another two years at the house in Faughan Hill, Bohermeen, Navan, Co Meath. The report also said they were to vacate by 24 September 2020 and that demolition would follow their departure. They gave sworn undertakings to leave by the agreed date. Mr Justice Meenan welcomed the settlement and gave both parties liberty to apply to the court if needed.

Meath County Council had alleged that the couple failed to comply with an earlier demolition order and sought their attachment and possible committal to prison for alleged contempt. The couple denied wilful contempt and argued that the proceedings should be struck out, citing delay, changed personal circumstances and a lack of resources.

In 2010, the High Court had found in the council’s favour and ordered the house demolished. The couple appealed, but the Supreme Court upheld the decision in 2017. A stay on the Supreme Court’s demolition order expired in May 2018.