Court archive
2026-02-26 · Dublin
Dziugas Odinas pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and endangerment after a high-speed pursuit involving 12 garda vehicles and the Garda national air support unit. He also pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of MDMA, Ecstasy tablets and Alprazolam tablets. Judge Sarah Berkeley adjourned the case to May 11 for finalisation and remanded him in custody.
2026-02-26 · Ireland
The Workplace Relations Commission found that a young Traveller girl was discriminated against after staff at an open farm questioned whether she had paid for sweets. Adjudicator Gaye Cunningham rejected the business's defence and awarded €8,000 in compensation under the Equal Status Act 2000.
2026-02-25 · Dublin
Evidence at the Workplace Relations Commission heard that senior Aer Lingus flight attendant Alan O'Neill allegedly refused a passenger access to a toilet during a delayed Marseilles-to-Dublin flight. Witnesses differed on the delay, but one said the passenger was crying when he eventually used the lavatory. The evidence arose during O'Neill's unfair-dismissal complaint, which remains ongoing.
2026-02-25 · Dublin
Michael Doran, 39, of Whitechurch Way, Ballyboden, Dublin 16, was refused bail after being accused of trying to take a car at a Circle K garage. He faces charges of unauthorised taking, driving without insurance, driving without a licence and criminal damage. Judge Áine Clancy ordered him into custody pending a Cloverhill District Court appearance.
2026-02-20 · Carlow
A Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator awarded a care worker €21,153.50 for unfair dismissal, ruling that the employer failed to follow adequate probation procedures during the appeal stage. The complainant alleged she was targeted for taking maternity leave and for reporting that her manager's brother was on holiday while on sick leave. She also claimed her manager made adverse comments regarding contraception and pregnancy, remarks the manager denied. The adjudicator found insufficient evidence to corroborate these specific allegations or to link the dismissal to protected grounds or disclosures. However, the tribunal concluded the dismissal was automatically unfair because the performance management process lacked outside involvement during a breakdown in the working relationship, and the subsequent appeal was cursory with unsatisfactory reasoning. The worker, hired in February 2023, failed her final probation review in January 2024. The adjudicator assessed her losses at over €40,000 but reduced the award by 50% due to a failure to mitigate losses. The decision was anonymised to protect vulnerable service users. Paul Gough of Beauchamps Solicitors represented the employer, while Cathy McGrady BL, instructed by Farrell McElwee Solicitors, represented the complainant.
2026-02-19 · Cork
A car salesman accused of theft for buying a customer's trade-in for a higher price in an "around the corner" deal has won €10,000 for unfair dismissal. The employee, Alex Collins, was fired in November 2024 by Cork City motor dealership Kevin O'Leary Silversprings Ltd, trading as the Kevin O'Leary Group. His complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 was upheld by the Workplace Relations Commission in a decision published today. Mr Collins considered himself "a high-performing employee", as he had passed probation after joining in August 2023 and earned around €60,000 in 2024 prior to his dismissal – roughly doubling his basic annual salary of €30,000 with what he made on commission. Mr Collins came under scrutiny after a customer complained that he had been asked to park a car he intended trade-in "around the corner", company sales manager Dermot O'Sullivan said in evidence. The customer had called it "an unusual way of doing business", Mr O'Sullivan said. He said it "raised concerns about deviations from standard procedures".
2026-02-19 · Ireland
A judge has expressed frustration with what he described as the 'triumph of bureaucracy and administration over actually doing something' during a murder trial. The accused, who was due to stand trial earlier this year, had his case adjourned due to concerns about his mental health. His barrister informed Mr Justice Tony Hunt that initial issues regarding pay rates for psychiatric reports had been resolved, with the Legal Aid Board agreeing to increase the rate from €120 to €300 per hour. However, a new obstacle has emerged, as the board now requires a PPS number for the accused before sanctioning a report. The accused's solicitor has been unable to obtain this number. Mr Justice Hunt stated that he could not 'micromanage affairs between solicitors and the Legal Aid Board' and emphasized that trials should not be delayed over trivialities like providing a PPS number. He called for action to be taken rather than bureaucratic delays. A barrister for the State said they would assist in finding the PPS number. The matter was adjourned to March for an update.
2026-02-17 · Ireland
A man in his 20s charged with assault, criminal damage, and drug possession following an incident in Dún Laoghaire has been remanded in custody. The accused is charged with assaulting a woman and causing her harm, damaging a window at a neighbouring property, and possessing heroin, cocaine, and benzodiazepines. He is also charged with criminal damage at Dún Laoghaire Garda Station, where he allegedly spat food onto a cell wall and door after his arrest. No bail application was made, and the accused was remanded in custody to appear by video link for a bail hearing. Judge Anne Watkin directed that the accused receive medical attention for injuries sustained during the incident, as well as for heroin addiction and mental health issues. Legal aid was granted to the accused's defence solicitor. The case highlights concerns about drug use, assault, and property damage in the area, with the accused facing multiple charges that could result in significant legal consequences.
2026-02-12 · Louth
A man accused of being part of a right-wing group that targeted a mosque in Galway claims he cannot receive a fair trial due to the wording of the Explosives Act. Karolis Peckauskas (38) of Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, has been granted leave from the High Court to challenge the fairness of his trial under the Act, which he argues violates his fundamental human rights. He was arrested on November 4 last year at O'Moore Place, Portlaoise, Co Laois, and charged with possessing six litres of hydrogen peroxide and an explosive substance. Peckauskas has not entered a plea and plans to apply for bail for the third time. In November, he was denied bail at Portlaoise District Court and again at the High Court in December. His co-accused, Garrett Pollock (35), was also refused bail. Evidence presented included a video of four masked men planning violent action and a manifesto for a right-wing group. Judge Andrew Cody described the video as resembling a statement released after a terrorist attack.
2026-02-12 · Dublin
A man and his cousin are to be assessed for community service after pleading guilty to participating in a prolonged and unusual fraud that began 11 years ago. Simon O'Donnell (43) of Swords, Co Dublin, pleaded guilty to providing false information in a passport application in 2019. His cousin Winnie O'Donnell (59) of Dublin 22 pleaded guilty to providing false information to the Civil Registration Service in 2011. The pair attempted to create a fictitious identity by registering the birth of a 'David O'Donnell' in 1980, with Winnie falsely claiming to be his aunt. The birth certificate was later used in a passport application that was stopped by biometric safeguards. Simon admitted the fraud was to obtain social welfare to pay off people threatening him due to a feud. Winnie admitted there was no such person as 'David O'Donnell' but did not dispute the signature on the form. The court heard that Simon had no previous convictions for deception offences, while Winnie had eight summary convictions for theft and fraud.
2026-02-11 · Dublin
Simon O'Donnell and his cousin Winnie O'Donnell were involved in a prolonged and unusual fraud attempt that began 11 years ago. They created a fictitious identity to claim social welfare benefits. Simon pleaded guilty to providing false information in a passport application in 2019, while Winnie pleaded guilty to providing false information to the Civil Registration Service in 2011. The court heard that they registered the birth of a fictitious person named 'David O'Donnell' and submitted the birth certificate as part of the passport application. The passport application was stopped due to biometric safeguards, leading to an investigation. Simon claimed he did it to obtain social welfare to pay off people threatening him due to a feud. Winnie admitted there was no such person as 'David O'Donnell' but did not dispute that the signature on the form looked like hers. The court heard that the fraud was a bet to see if they could be successful in submitting the application. Both defendants expressed remorse and asked the court to consider non-custodial sentences.
2026-02-11 · Cork
Lawyers have argued that an alleged informal and somewhat vulgar working environment at Apple meant a worker should not have been sacked after a colleague complained about him using derogatory language. Vinicius dos Santos, a legal specialist at Apple's offices in Cork, was sacked for gross misconduct after a colleague, Robertha Abreu, complained about his inappropriate remarks. The tribunal heard that dos Santos used derogatory language towards a female contract worker, referring to her as "this thing" and "this dumb one" in Portuguese. Abreu also accused him of calling her and the contractor "tramps" and "whores" in Portuguese. Dos Santos was also accused of making a remark about "fluffy puffy" to another worker. The defense argued that the working environment was informal and that the language used was part of the culture among Portuguese speakers. The prosecution, however, argued that the language used was inappropriate and made Abreu feel uncomfortable. The case was adjourned for further evidence, with the adjudication officer stating she would hear from both dos Santos and Abreu in the next hearing.
2026-02-09 · Ireland
A tribunal has ruled that senior gardaí were justified in ordering a Special Branch detective to surrender his firearms when he showed signs of anxiety and stress, according to the Workplace Relations Commission. The tribunal dismissed multiple complaints by the detective, who alleged penalisation and discrimination on family status grounds after he accused his superiors of colluding to punish him for filing a grievance against his sergeant. The dispute originated from orders by former Garda Commissioner Drew Harris to cancel all leave during the State visit of former US President Joe Biden in April 2023. The detective had applied for holiday leave that clashed with the visit and was detailed to provide protection duty. However, on the morning of the visit, he indicated his intention to take force majeure leave due to his children being unwell. His sergeant had previously indicated he would be spoken to upon returning to work. The detective was later reprimanded and claimed he was de-selected for a close protection course.
2026-02-08 · Dublin
The Workplace Relations Commission has dismissed Ellie Dunne's disability discrimination complaint against the National College of Art and Design (NCAD). Dunne, the first student with Down Syndrome to enrol in NCAD's fine art degree, alleged the college failed to provide necessary supports during her 2023 first semester, leading to her failure in a crucial module. The adjudicator rejected the claim primarily because formal notice was not served until April 2024, exceeding the statutory two-month limit. Additionally, the adjudicator found that requiring Dunne to re-sit the module was an inherent element of academic standards, not discrimination. Evidence included testimony from Dunne, her mother Katy McGuinness, and NCAD director Professor Sarah Glennie. McGuinness claimed NCAD was "ableist" and that her daughter's support worker, Nathalie Scharwatt, was excluded from educational support. NCAD denied discrimination "in the strongest possible terms" and cited a breach of protocol regarding a disability assessment document. The matter was concluded with the claim dismissed on both procedural and substantive grounds.
2026-02-06 · Dublin
A security company, BGS Security Ltd, accused of the 'systematic exploitation' of vulnerable migrant workers, has been likened to a 'modern slavery' operation by trade union SIPTU. Former employees, including James Ajibola, have brought complaints against the company, which is now in liquidation. The company was found to have systematically failed to pay wages to mainly migrant workers from Africa and Asia, while white Irish or European employees in supervisory roles were paid. SIPTU representatives argued that the company's actions constituted racial discrimination. The liquidator, Thomas Musiol, said there were over 50 similar cases and that the company's director had disappeared. The tribunal was told that some workers had no social welfare contributions, creating ambiguity about whether unpaid wages could be paid from the Employers' Insolvency Fund. The case is ongoing, with the adjudication officer to write to the parties with his decision in due course.
2026-02-06 · Wicklow
Avoca has been accused of overreacting by sacking its head chef, Giorgio Romano, after a company investigator claimed he falsified refrigeration records for two batches of curry. The Workplace Relations Commission heard that Avoca informed health inspectors that there was no food safety risk and did not recall the meals. Romano's lawyers argued that the company acted disproportionately, as Romano made a genuine mistake under pressure. Romano, who had worked for Avoca for 17 years, stated he was under pressure due to a shortage of staff and was operating new equipment for the first time. He explained that he took the curries out of the chiller himself because a kitchen assistant was missing. The tribunal was told that Avoca had no evidence of a food safety risk and that firing Romano was inconsistent with their earlier statements. The adjudicator is expected to deliver a decision in about 12 weeks.
2026-02-04 · Cork
A Dutch teacher who sold his house to secure bail for a compatriot accused of drug smuggling appeared before the Special Criminal Court. Ali Ghasemi Mazidi, aged 50 and resident in the Netherlands, faces charges of conspiracy to import controlled drugs valued at approximately €60 million between February and March 2024. David Kuiper, aged 53, offered himself as an independent surety of €30,000 for Mr Mazidi's High Court bail. During proceedings, the State's counsel challenged Mr Kuiper's credibility, noting he appeared unaware of the specific charges against the accused and lived abroad, making supervision difficult. Mr Kuiper testified he had known Mr Mazidi for two decades and trusted him implicitly. The court heard that seven co-accused have already pleaded guilty to the charge. Mr Mazidi, Sean Curran of Aughnacloy, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, and Raul Tabares Garcia remain awaiting trial. Justice Tony Hunt, presiding with two fellow judges, adjourned the matter to February 13.
2026-02-04 · Cavan
Danny Heyneman, a 32-year-old man from Kilnavart, Ballyconnell, County Cavan, has been charged with the murder of Annie Heyneman and the attempted murder of Henk Heyneman. The alleged offences are said to have occurred at the family home in Kilnavart on January 11, 2025. Heyneman is currently accused of these crimes, and the charges remain alleged or contested. The matter is at the pre-trial stage, with no plea entered, finding made, or sentence imposed. The case is listed for trial at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin on April 13. A mention date has also been scheduled for February 18 at the same court. No finalisation, adjournment, or disposal has been recorded for this procedural stage. All allegations are attributed to the charges brought against the accused, and no conviction has been established. The report reflects the current status of the case as it proceeds toward trial.
2026-01-28 · Ireland
The Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has sanctioned 'emergency measures' to pay psychiatrists more for the preparation of reports on defendants in criminal cases, following severe delays in the progression of trials through the judicial system, the Central Criminal Court has heard. A representative from the Criminal Legal Aid Unit of the Department of Justice agreed that his department would pay the same rates to defence psychiatrists as those offered to prosecution experts until June. The court heard that the Dept of Justice has now set up a task force to address the issue. Mr Justice Paul McDermott, the judge overseeing the trial list at the Central Criminal Court, said the importance of the issue could not be underestimated, 'particularly for victims of violent crime'. He had previously said it is 'completely unacceptable' that the State wasn't in a position to facilitate the trial process in securing psychiatric assessments.
2026-01-28 · Dublin
There is 'no reality' of a trial proceeding as planned for a Somali national charged with the murder of young mother Mary Ward last year as the accused remains 'mute' and there is still no psychiatric report from the defence, the Central Criminal Court has heard. Ahmed Abdirahman (31), originally from Somalia and with a last address at Kinlay house, Lord Edward Street, Dublin, is accused of murdering Ms Ward, who was his former partner, on September 25, 2024, at her house on Melrose Street in south Belfast. The case has come before the courts on a number of occasions, with the legal team for the defence saying that the accused had failed to engage with a psychiatrist who attempted to see him. At the Central Criminal Court this morning, counsel for the State, Antonia Boyle BL, said that the matter was listed for trial on February 23 next, but she asked the court to vacate that date as there was 'no reality to that proceeding'.
2026-01-27 · Ireland
Children's charity Barnardos has been accused of attempting to use a technical legal argument to shut down a long-running employment rights dispute after the claimant was given an adjournment when her father died. Tara Smith, who was employed by Barnardos for nearly three decades, was let go in January 2021 on the basis of redundancy, which she argues was unfair. The charity's lawyers moved an application to dismiss her complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 without hearing her evidence. Ms Smith's representative objected to the motion, arguing that it was a disgraceful move by the charity and that the case had already been delayed due to previous legal proceedings. The charity's barrister argued that the legislation provided for the dismissal of a complaint if there was a failure to pursue it for 12 calendar months. The case was adjourned for an exchange of written legal submissions on the application.
2026-01-23 · Dublin
A pilot accused Aer Lingus of conducting a 'witch hunt' after he raised concerns about a potential data breach involving sensitive personal information on the airline's internal systems. Dale Connolly, a captain with Aer Lingus, filed complaints under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and the Payment of Wages Act 1991, alleging he was penalized for whistleblowing. He discovered that personal data, including birth certificates, private emails, and police records, were accessible on the airline's intranet. Connolly reported the issue, but the airline claimed it was a 'settings issue' that had been resolved. Later, he found additional sensitive information, including personal emails and police records, and raised concerns with the Data Protection Commissioner. Connolly felt intimidated after another pilot shared screenshots with the airline's chief technical pilot, leading to a disciplinary meeting and a verbal warning. He claims the warning has hindered his career progression. The airline argued that his concerns were properly addressed and that his actions were not protected under whistleblower laws. The case is ongoing, with the adjudicator having adjourned the matter to a future date.
2026-01-22 · Louth
A trial date has been set for a 31-year-old man accused of murdering his mother, father, and brother at their family home in County Louth last year. Robert O'Connor, from Drumgowna, is charged with the triple murder that occurred on September 29. During proceedings at the Central Criminal Court, defence counsel Michael Bowman SC highlighted the presence of a psychiatric aspect to the case. Mr Justice Paul McDermott scheduled the trial for October 5 and case management for February 18. The accused has been remanded in custody. The court heard that the case involves complex psychological factors, which may influence the trial's proceedings. The matter will be closely monitored as it progresses through the legal system. The trial is expected to be a significant event in the local legal calendar, with attention focused on the accused's mental state and the circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths.
2026-01-20 · Ireland
Christopher Murray, a former Amazon supervisor, has lost his claim against the company for alleged penalisation after accusing it of carrying out a biased disciplinary investigation. Murray, who worked at Amazon since 2023, filed complaints under the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 and the Payment of Wages Act 1991, alleging that Amazon had failed to pay wages and annual leave. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) rejected his complaints, noting that Amazon had already paid the money due after Murray quit his job in May 2025. Murray claimed he became a 'marked man' at the company for filing a grievance about a three-day wait period for sick pay. The tribunal found that Amazon's processes were not biased or amounting to penalisation, and noted that Murray had secured new employment quickly. Adjudication officer Michael McEntee concluded that there was no evidence of penalisation or harassment, and that Murray's parting message to colleagues was more of a 'sorrowful' tone rather than a forced dismissal.
2026-01-20 · Ireland
The Special Criminal Court has adjourned the sentencing of seven defendants to Monday, March 23, with Ms Justice Karen O'Connor remanding all in custody until that date. Gary Monks, Miljan Koprivica, Conor Costello, Ryan Watson, Hanz Pangahin, Christopher Ampo, and Feljon Lao have all pleaded guilty to conspiring to import controlled drugs with a value exceeding €13,000 between December 18, 2024, and January 15, 2025. The court heard that the group operated as structured cells, with three Filipino crew members transporting cocaine from the Amazon region to Co Clare, while the other four, including Monks, formed a UK-based landing cell tasked with collecting the drugs for transport to Co Kerry. Defence counsel for Monks, a former British soldier, argued he was not at the upper echelons of the organisation and suffered from PTSD stemming from service in Iraq and Afghanistan. Counsel stated Monks began abusing drugs and alcohol after returning to Scotland, leading to his involvement in the offence. A probation report noted Monks is at high risk of reoffending in the generic sense over the next 12 months. The matter was adjourned, and no final sentence was imposed at this stage.
2026-01-16 · Dublin
An uninsured motorist who believed he was covered when stopped by gardaí has avoided a driving ban after appearing before Tallaght District Court. Claudius Dsouza (44), of Marybrook Village, Portlaoise, Co Laois pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and failing to produce an insurance certificate. The court heard that Mr Dsouza was stopped by gardaí on Garter Lane, Saggart, on March 9, 2025. Garda checks showed the 2009-registered car was not insured at the time. Mr Dsouza was unable to produce an insurance certificate at the roadside and did not later produce one at a garda station. Gardaí told the court the defendant later accepted he had no insurance on the vehicle on the day in question. Solicitor Jeremiah Breen, for Mr Dsouza, said his client had believed he was insured and expressed regret for the incident. The court heard he is married with two children and works part-time in a garage. It was confirmed he has no previous convictions.
2026-01-16 · Dublin
A 34-year-old man from Finglas has admitted to conspiring to murder a Dublin father-of-two who was fatally shot at his home in 2018. Joseph Richards, with an address at Lanesborough Square, pleaded guilty at the Central Criminal Court to conspiracy to murder Robert Sheridan, aged 45, who died following a shooting at Poppintree Crescent, Ballymun, on October 5, 2018. Richards was charged with the offence in 2024. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the case to February 16 for sentencing.
2026-01-14 · Louth
A man has been charged with criminal damage after allegedly kicking a car during a protest outside the Iranian Embassy in south Dublin. The incident occurred on Mount Merrion Avenue, Blackrock, on Tuesday at around 1.40pm. The damage, estimated at €2,000, was caused to a grey 2020 Mercedes that was being driven at the time, with no injuries reported. Saeid Khosroabadi (41), of Seville Place, Dublin 1, was charged with criminal damage. Garda Niall McGraynor stated that Mr Khosroabadi allegedly kicked the car three times during the protest. Gardaí arrived at the scene after the incident and later arrested Mr Khosroabadi at his home. He spent the night in custody and was fully co-operative with gardaí. Judge Conor Fottrell accepted jurisdiction in the case. Mr Khosroabadi was released on bail with conditions to stay away from the embassy and the Blackrock area. The defence requested CCTV footage, and an application for legal aid was granted. The case was adjourned to April 13 at Dún Laoghaire District Court.
2026-01-14 · Limerick
Lawyers for Jeremiah O'Brien, a Limerick man wanted in Greece for human trafficking, have raised concerns about Greek prison conditions in the High Court. O'Brien is accused of facilitating the smuggling of 66 Middle Eastern people to Italy by speedboat in 2017. His legal team argued that Greek prisons are overcrowded, unsafe, and controlled by prisoners, violating human dignity. They cited a 2022 report highlighting poor healthcare, lack of medical confidentiality, and inadequate government funding. The court was asked to delay O'Brien's extradition to allow Greek authorities to address these concerns. The State's legal representative noted the Greek government's response was aspirational but did not contradict the report. The case was adjourned to January 26, with both sides agreeing to request further information from Greek authorities.
2026-01-13 · Dublin
An Indian business student, Rishabh Mahajan, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to four counts of offensive conduct of a sexual nature and one count of sexual assault. The incidents occurred in October and November 2024, where Mahajan sexually assaulted a woman and masturbated in public. Garda Patrick Hynes told the court that the incidents were captured on CCTV and were "quite brazen" and took place in "quite an exposed part" of the city. The complainant outlined the effects of the offending in a victim impact statement. Garda Stephanie Traynor stated that Mahajan was identified and arrested in early November. Mahajan told gardai that he couldn't remember carrying out the offence. His defence counsel, Patrick Flynn BL, said Mahajan had arrived in Ireland a month earlier to study at the Smurfit business school and was now in homeless accommodation. He offered an apology on his client's behalf to all victims. Judge Baxter adjourned sentencing to May 19 and remanded Mahajan on continuing bail, ordering him to provide the Probation Service with his contact details.
2026-01-12 · Ireland
A 20-year-old man has pleaded guilty to eight counts of sexual assault and one count of anal rape of a child between January and August 2021. The accused, who was aged between 15 and 16 at the time of the offences, sexually abused his 11-year-old cousin over a period of months. The abuse ended when the victim's younger brother informed their mother of the incidents. The victim, now 20, described the impact of the abuse in a victim impact statement, stating it had a 'life-altering affect' on him, leading to a diagnosis of PTSD, social anxiety, and depression. He outlined the ongoing effects on his mental health, education, and social life. The accused admitted guilt and the injured party did not have to give evidence. The case is at the sentence stage, and Ms Justice Melanie Greally adjourned the sentencing hearing until March 2, 2026, when a probation report will be available and a plea in mitigation will be heard from the defence legal team.
2026-01-07 · Mayo
A man from Belmullet, County Mayo, has brought a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission alleging gender discrimination and breaches of the Employment Equality Act 1998 during a meeting with the Erris Chamber of Commerce in April 2025. James Monaghan claims he was asked inappropriate questions about his national background, age, and smoking and alcohol habits, and was told cutting his hair was a condition of employment. The Chamber's chairman, Brian Bakeberg, disputed these characterisations, stating the encounter was a casual discussion rather than a formal interview, and that remarks about hair were contextual comments about hair loss rather than discriminatory conditions. He denied asking direct questions about Mr Monaghan's nationality or making employment contingent on grooming standards. The adjudication officer, Conor Stokes, concluded the hearing and indicated a written decision would follow in the coming weeks.
2025-12-16 · Donegal
A paramedic in Letterkenny has secured an award of €32,000 for racial discrimination from the Workplace Relations Commission following her dismissal over an incident at a petrol station. The EMT was fired for gross misconduct after allegedly permitting a patient to smoke during a journey, whilst her white colleague faced only a letter of concern for the same incident. The adjudicator found both staff members had acquiesced to the patient's request, yet received markedly different disciplinary outcomes. The employer attempted to shield the colleague under whistleblower protections, a defence the tribunal deemed misconceived. The adjudicator determined the disparity in treatment, coupled with the complainant's prior documented hostility toward the dismissed employee, raised an inference of discrimination on racial grounds. The employer failed to provide fair process, the tribunal noted, as the dismissed worker was denied knowledge of her accuser's identity or opportunity to respond to allegations. The tribunal ruled discrimination occurred under the Employment Equality Act 1998.
2025-12-12 · Dublin
A judge has dismissed a charge of intimidation and begging against Nutu Rostas (27), who was accused of disturbing churchgoers during a Christmas service in south Dublin. The case was heard in Dún Laoghaire District Court, where Mr Rostas appeared charged with begging and obstructing pedestrians at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour on 29 December, 2024. Garda witnesses testified that they arrived at the scene shortly after 11am and observed Mr Rostas near the church entrance with a cup, shouting something that could not be clearly heard. Some patrons reportedly avoided him as they entered the church. However, under cross-examination, the garda admitted he could not hear exactly what was said and acknowledged that people were able to move around Mr Rostas. He also stated that his perception of the accused's aggression was based on distant observations. Judge Anne Watkin ruled that the evidence did not meet the required standard to prove intimidation or obstruction, leading to the dismissal of the charge.
2025-12-12 · Dublin
Ionut Danca has admitted to killing a Canadian tourist, Neno Dolmajian, in Dublin City Centre in July 2024 and has been allowed to remain on bail ahead of sentencing. Danca pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of Dolmajian, who was assaulted on 23 June 2024 and died nine days later. His co-accused, Madalin Ghiuzan, pleaded guilty to assaulting Dolmajian. The Director of Public Prosecutions has accepted the pleas. Danca, a construction worker from Romania, had previously been charged with murder, while Ghiuzan had a manslaughter charge. It is expected that the murder and manslaughter charges will be dropped at the sentencing hearing. Both men have been on bail and have complied with all conditions. The case is listed for sentencing on 9 February, with the deceased's family invited to make statements to the court.
2025-12-11 · Limerick
A Limerick man, Jeremiah O'Brien (55), who is wanted in Europe on a human trafficking charge, has been remanded in custody with consent to bail. He is alleged to have facilitated the transportation of 66 people from an unknown desert place near Nafplio, Greece, to Italy without life jackets. The boat was found stranded on a rocky shore near Gyalia beach. The State opposed his bail application at the High Court, citing concerns that he might abscond. O'Brien's defence counsel, Simon Matthews BL, stated that his client is a member of the travelling community who sells tools and generators across Europe and that the addresses provided were those of family and friends. Ms Justice Mary Ellen Ring noted the seriousness of the allegations but emphasized O'Brien's right to be presumed innocent. She granted bail on his own bond of €500 and an independent surety of €15,000, with conditions including surrendering travel documents, living at his Rathkeale address, and maintaining a curfew. O'Brien must also attend all court dates and not apply for travel documents.
2025-12-09 · Cavan
A firefighter employed part-time with Cavan County Fire Service has been awarded €15,000 by the Workplace Relations Commission following a successful complaint of penalisation under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005. Cian Donohoe alleged that a station officer subjected him to bullying behaviour including removal of personal protective equipment from his locker and derogatory remarks. Mr Donohoe reported concerns to the county's former chief fire officer in April 2022, subsequently taking an eight-month career break. He claimed the behaviour resumed and intensified upon his return, leading to work-related stress and medical absence. Adjudicator Roger McGrath upheld the penalisation complaint, finding the station officer's conduct amounted to coercion and intimidation, and that removal of essential firefighting equipment constituted a material detriment. The adjudicator noted the station officer did not attend the hearing to provide evidence. Mr Donohoe was represented by solicitor Damien Rudden, with the Local Government Management Agency appearing for Cavan County Council.
2025-12-04 · Dublin
A charge of trespassing against Mohammed Bishet (30), of no fixed abode, has been dismissed after a judge found the State had failed to establish the required evidence. Bishet had pleaded not guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to entering a residence at Lansdowne Park, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, as a trespasser on 2 March last year. The charge was under section 11 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, which requires proof that the accused entered without the owner's consent and with intent to commit an offence or unlawfully interfere with property. Gardaí responded to a call at the property and found the front-door lock broken and the door open. A light was on upstairs, and two males were spotted. Bishet was cautioned and taken to Irishtown Garda Station, where he was later charged. Defence counsel, Silvia Maria Crowley BL, argued that the prosecution had failed to establish lack of consent from the owner or occupier, a core requirement under the law. She noted there was no evidence that Bishet had broken the lock or caused damage.
2025-12-03 · Waterford
Media coverage of challenges in securing a psychiatrist for the trial of Ruth Purcell Healy, accused of murdering her six-year-old son, led an Australian-based psychiatrist to offer his services, a barrister told the court. The prosecution had struggled to find a forensic psychiatrist in Ireland to assess the accused, but the overseas professional came forward after reading about the difficulties. The psychiatrist will conduct an initial assessment via video-link and is expected to complete a full evaluation by Easter, with a report by the end of May. The case has highlighted the lack of a reliable system for psychiatric assessments in Ireland, with no legal obligation for HSE-employed psychiatrists to provide such services. The judge expressed frustration with the delays and hopes for a more structured approach. The trial is expected to proceed with a possible date in June or July.
2025-12-02 · Ireland
A trial is ongoing at the Central Criminal Court, presided over by Ms Justice Caroline Biggs, involving seven men accused of sexually abusing a deaf woman over a 17-year period between 1996 and 2013. The accused, comprising three uncles and four brothers, all deny the charges. The complainant is giving evidence via video-link with interpreters and an intermediary. She described alleged incidents involving Accused D, who is accused of 22 counts of abuse between 2002 and 2013 and has pleaded not guilty to 19 charges of rape and three counts of anal rape. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, faces one count of rape. Accused B faces eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape. Accused C faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape, plus additional charges regarding two other sisters, including sexual assault and rape. Accused E faces 16 counts, Accused F faces five counts, and Accused G faces one count of rape. All defendants have pleaded not guilty or denied the allegations. The trial is set down for four months before a 15-juror panel.
2025-12-02 · Dublin
A judge has refused jurisdiction in the case of a man accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy in a gym changing room. Judge Karen Dowling ruled that the allegation was too serious to be dealt with at the District Court level. The incident occurred on 5 April last year, when the accused allegedly grabbed the boy's genitals over his trousers while smirking. The victim immediately informed staff, and Gardaí were contacted. CCTV footage was obtained, leading to the accused's arrest and interview. Judge Dowling stated that the seriousness of the allegation required the case to be heard in the Circuit Court. The matter was adjourned for six weeks to prepare a book of evidence. The charge relates to an incident under Section 2 of the Criminal Law (Rape) (Amendment) Act 1990, as amended by Section 37 of the Sex Offenders Act 2001.
2025-12-02 · Dublin
A driver has appeared before Dún Laoghaire District Court charged with causing the death of cyclist Gretchen Price Martin in Dublin last year. Oleg Popov (47), of Peyton Court, Rathcoole, Co Dublin, is charged with dangerous driving causing the death of Ms Price Martin at Glenageary Road Upper, Glenageary, on 24 April, 2024. He is also charged with driving a mechanically propelled vehicle while a known defect made it dangerous to the public on the same date. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, told the court that a Romanian interpreter will be required to assist the accused. Judge Anne Watkin adjourned the matter to 10 February next to allow the book of evidence to be prepared. The case is expected to proceed with the preparation of the evidence book before the next court date, and the accused will require interpretation services during the proceedings. The charges relate to the incident that occurred on Glenageary Road Upper, where the cyclist lost her life as a result of the alleged dangerous driving.
2025-12-01 · Ireland
The Central Criminal Court trial of seven men accused of sexually abusing a deaf woman over a 17-year period continues before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs. The accused, aged 32 to 55, deny all charges. Accused C (34) faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape against the complainant between 2001 and 2013, plus charges of sexual assault and rape against two other sisters. Accused A (55) is accused of one count of rape. Accused B (48) faces eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape. Accused D (33) pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape. Accused E (32) denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape. Accused F (32) denied five counts of anal rape and rape. Accused G (45) denied one count of rape. The complainant, giving evidence via video-link with interpreters and an intermediary, alleged repeated abuse by her brother, Accused C, including incidents when she was aged 15 and 21. She stated she told him no and felt trapped. The trial, set down for four months, is ongoing.
2025-12-01 · Dublin
Brian Carroll, 30, of South Circular Road, Dublin 8, was convicted at Tallaght District Court of exposing his genitals to a customer at Nutgrove Shopping Centre on 28 June 2023. The offence, contrary to section 45 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017, was alleged to have occurred when the woman returned to a Three mobile phone store for a follow-up. She testified that Carroll asked her to move around the counter to view an iPad screen, during which she saw his erect penis. Carroll pleaded not guilty, denying the incident occurred and stating he was wearing shorts and a branded T-shirt. He argued there was no possible way the complainant could have seen anything from her position. Defence counsel Seoirse Fennessy BL argued there was no evidence of intent to cause fear or distress, noting Carroll's cooperation in attempting to retrieve CCTV footage, which was unavailable due to a full hard drive. The prosecution contended that intent could be inferred from Carroll's actions. Judge Patricia McNamara found the complainant credible and satisfied to convict Carroll. The matter was adjourned to allow the woman to prepare a victim impact report and for a pre-sentencing probation report to assess Carroll's risk of reoffending. The judge warned Carroll not to come to the attention of Gardaí in the meantime. The case was put back for sentencing on 19 February.
2025-11-29 · Ireland
A mother of three received an apology from St James' Hospital for the under-reporting of a cervical smear test in 2004, which may have led to her later diagnosis of cervical cancer. The woman claimed that the hospital failed to correctly report abnormal cells in the 2004 test, which could have triggered early intervention. The case was consolidated against the hospital and the HSE, with the hospital admitting a breach of duty in a letter of apology. The apology acknowledged that had the 2004 test been correctly reported, the woman may have been referred for colposcopy and the pre-cancerous cells could have been treated. The court was informed that the matter had been resolved to the woman's satisfaction, and the judge wished her and her husband all the best for the future.
2025-11-28 · Dublin
Pawel Pisarek, a Dublin man, is pursuing a complaint under the Equal Status Act 2000 against An Garda Síochána, alleging discrimination, harassment, and victimisation based on race. He claims that on 17 March last year, Inspector Daragh Jennings at Gorey Garda Station ejected him and his son after they spoke Polish. Pisarek stated he was seeking an explanation regarding the handling of criminal complaints for theft, assault, and death threats, alleging the officer improperly used discretion to issue only an adult caution for the theft. He described the inspector as angry and racist, claiming the officer jumped from his desk and screamed at his son. State counsel Declan Harmon BL applied for the case to be dismissed as frivolous, vexatious, or made in bad faith, noting that the Garda Síochána Ombudsman's Commission (GSOC) had previously terminated its investigation into the matter. Counsel also argued the complaint was filed out of time, as it was submitted in November 2024, exceeding the six-month limit. Pisarek rejected these characterisations, challenging the inspector to a lie detector test and asserting that CCTV footage would support his account. He confirmed there was no physical contact but expressed fear of assault due to the officer's proximity. Adjudicator Louise Boyle adjourned the case, directing that evidence from the State's witnesses be heard at a later date.
2025-11-27 · Ireland
The Central Criminal Court trial of seven men accused of familial sexual abuse continues before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs. The complainant, a deaf woman, gave evidence via videolink regarding Accused C, her 34-year-old brother, who is accused of 45 counts of rape and anal rape over a 12-year period. She alleged he raped her when she was 20 and described another incident where he held her mouth while she slept. Accused C denies all charges, which also include sexual assault and rape of two other sisters. The other six accused are her uncles and brothers. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, faces one count of rape; Accused B, 48, faces eight counts including oral rape; and Accused G, 45, faces one count of rape. Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape. Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape. Accused F, also 32, denied five counts of rape and anal rape. All defendants deny the allegations. The trial, set for four months, involves an extended panel of 15 jurors and uses interpreters and an intermediary to assist the complainant.
2025-11-27 · Limerick
A Limerick man is wanted in Europe for allegedly attempting to traffic 66 people from Greece to Italy by speedboat. Jeremiah O'Brien (55) was arrested on an SIS alert related to a European warrant. Detective Garda Tony Keane testified that O'Brien, along with two others, rented a car and a 12m speedboat to transport the individuals, who paid between $4,000 and $6,000 each. The boat was discovered stranded on a rocky shore near Gylalia beach, with the 66 people including 30 adult men, 14 adult women, and 22 children from Iraq, Syria, and Iran. O'Brien denied being in Greece and claimed he had no knowledge of the incident. The court remanded him in custody to appear again on December 9.
2025-11-25 · Dublin
Edward Bradbury, a solicitor, has been granted permission to challenge an order that he pay €500 to the District Court 'poor box' after he was unable to attend a hearing. Bradbury was acting for a bailed defendant in a criminal case when he was required to attend another court in Dublin on the same day. He asked a colleague to represent the client, but the case was adjourned because the defendant wished for Bradbury's office to be present. Later, Bradbury received an email from the court stating that he had been fined €500 to be paid to the poor box. Bradbury's solicitors argued that the judge did not have jurisdiction to impose such a penalty and that the fine was issued without formal notification. Bradbury submitted that the poor box is a common law creation and has no place in the supervision of a member of a regulated profession. The High Court granted leave to pursue the challenge, and the matter was adjourned to the New Year.
2025-11-21 · Dublin
Anthony Ainscough, an on-bail offender, was given a fully suspended sentence after punching an off-duty garda in a Dublin nightclub. Ainscough pleaded guilty to assault causing harm, which occurred during a confrontation where he believed the garda had spoken to his girlfriend. The incident was captured on CCTV, and the garda required medical treatment for a broken nose and tooth. Ainscough, who has previous convictions and was on bail at the time, was intoxicated and did not know the garda was off-duty. His defense highlighted his remorse, noting he had €10,000 in court as a token of apology and would provide additional funds. The court acknowledged his guilty plea and suspended the sentence, emphasizing the need for him to address his behavior.