A 23-year-old woman has been fined €500 for driving an electric scooter in a public place in Dublin nearly three years ago, when such vehicles were not legally allowed on Irish roads. Maria Jigala, who resides at Ticknock Road, Sandyford, Dublin 18, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to driving an electric scooter without insurance on 23 March 2023, in Stepaside Village. She was stopped following a report of a minor collision. Gardai stated that Jigala, who required a Moldovan interpreter, had no previous convictions and had not been in contact with gardaí since the incident. She was described as co-operative at the time. Her defence counsel, Silvia-Maria Crowley BL, explained that her client works as a beauty specialist and needed the ability to drive for work. She had been trying to arrange insurance but had not been successful. Judge Conor Fottrell noted that the case was primarily about the lack of insurance. He imposed a fine of €500, with six months to pay. Other charges, including failing to produce insurance and driving without a licence, were also considered.
An Army corporal from Athlone, Co Westmeath has initiated High Court proceedings against the Minister for Defence and the Attorney General, alleging he was prevented from promotion to a specialist IT sergeant position despite meeting all required qualifications. Corporal Adam Courtney, who joined the Defence Forces in 2011 and has completed multiple overseas deployments, claims he was the sole qualified candidate for the role under the 2025-2026 Junior Non-Commissioned Officer competition. He had been performing sergeant-level duties at Custume Barracks whilst receiving a substitution allowance and states he completed all mandatory courses before the September 2025 closing date. Corporal Courtney seeks a court order of mandamus requiring his promotion. He contends that military authorities subsequently filled the position with an already-promoted sergeant serving in a supernumerary capacity since 2024, who he asserts lacks the necessary qualifications. Ms Justice Mary Rose Gearty granted his ex parte application at the High Court this week and adjourned the matter to March.
Alan Burke, an electrician who had worked as an asset technician at Dublin Airport since December 2023, lost his job after An Garda Síochána revoked his green security clearance on 13 June 2025. Burke claims the revocation was based on a security intelligence check that returned a 'red' status, and that the decision was made without a fair hearing. He argues that the Garda Commissioner acted irrationally and arbitrarily, denying him an oral hearing and failing to provide information for his appeal. Burke maintains he does not pose a threat to national security, is not a member of any illegal organisation, and has never been tried for an offence linked to such an organisation. He has applied to the High Court for permission to challenge the decision and to obtain a declaration that the Commissioner's actions were contrary to fair procedures and natural justice. The case is adjourned to next month.
A tribunal has ruled that the 'beep test' used by Cork Fire Brigade to assess aerobic fitness for prospective firefighters discriminates against women and benefits younger candidates. The test, which has been in use for 40 years, was challenged by Terézia Foott, a part-time firefighter in her 40s who failed to advance in a recruitment competition for a full-time position in November 2023. Ms Foott, a qualified sports therapist and personal trainer, passed all other elements of the fitness test but did not meet the required score on the beep test. The tribunal found that the test's 'one-size-fits-all' standard was indirectly discriminatory against women and gave younger candidates an advantage. Ms Foott argued that she met the required standard for her age and gender, and she later achieved a higher VO2 max score in a separate test. The tribunal ruled that the use of the beep test without adjusting for age and gender was discriminatory and ordered Cork Fire Brigade to pay €8,000 in compensation, €4,000 for gender discrimination and €4,000 for age discrimination.
A serial offender, Andrew Murphy, was convicted and fined €750 after claiming that CCTV footage of a bicycle thief was '100% not me'. Murphy had pleaded not guilty to unlawfully taking a bicycle from a bike rack outside a store in Dublin. The victim reported that his bicycle was stolen, with the broken lock left behind. The CCTV footage showed a man removing a bicycle from the rack, and Garda Dylan Higgins identified Murphy as the individual in the footage. Murphy denied being the person in the footage, claiming he did not have the clothes depicted and was dealing with addiction issues at the time. The defence argued that the prosecution failed to establish a proper chain of custody for the CCTV footage and relied on Garda recognition evidence, which could be subject to honest mistake. However, the judge accepted Garda Higgins' identification and found Murphy guilty beyond reasonable doubt. Murphy has a significant criminal history, including 23 theft convictions, and the judge noted his difficult past before imposing the fine.
Lawyers for Trinity College have stated they will present statistics to demonstrate that the university is not racist, as they defend an academic's workplace equality claim. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is set to hear a complaint under the Employment Equality Act 1998 from Dr Abhijit Sarkar, a historian who has written on the late colonial period in India. Dr Sarkar claimed that the university's lawyers were attempting to 'gag' him by seeking a direction that he not share legal documents related to his case. Counsel for the university, Clíona Kimber SC, argued that the allegations against Trinity were 'very sweeping' and should not be published widely. She stated that the university would show 'chapter and verse' that it is not a racist institution. Dr Sarkar countered that the email was related to an academic post in modern South American history and that those involved in the hiring process needed to be aware of the legal proceedings. The case was adjourned with the university given until later this month to file submissions.
A former Portlaoise prison guard, Sean O'Brien, has failed in his legal challenge to have his case heard by the Defence Forces tribunal. O'Brien claimed he was fired with 'lethal intent' after helping to stop a 1988 escape attempt by a paramilitary prisoner. However, the High Court ruled that O'Brien was not an official employee of the Defence Forces, which was a requirement for the tribunal. The court also found that O'Brien was out of time to bring his challenge. O'Brien argued that the Defence Forces had controlled the prison since 1973 and that he should be included in the tribunal's terms of reference. However, the court rejected this, stating that the tribunal was established to examine issues within the Defence Forces, not those employed by the Prison Service. O'Brien's case was dismissed, and he was not granted permission to make representations to the tribunal.
A Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator has found that a 61-year-old Tesco worker was unfairly dismissed following the loss of a €20 note at a Castlebar store in 2023. Declan Kavanagh was suspended in October 2023 pending investigation and subsequently dismissed in January 2024 after a disciplinary process concluded he had misplaced the money. The adjudicator determined that while Mr Kavanagh did not place the money where required, the company's investigation contained critical flaws, notably the failure to search bins where the note may have been located and the non-interviewing of other employees present at the time. The tribunal found no evidence of dishonesty, noting Mr Kavanagh had acknowledged the misplacement from the outset and offered reimbursement. Given his thirteen years of unblemished service and lack of malicious intent, dismissal for gross misconduct was deemed disproportionate. The adjudicator awarded €12,000 compensation for unfair dismissal, concluding a lesser sanction was warranted.
Camila Nascimento Machado, a finance director, has been awarded €30,000 in compensation for unfair dismissal after her employer, Academic Bridge Ltd, presented her with a new contract cutting her pay by 60% four days after she informed her new boss of her pregnancy. The Workplace Relations Commission found that the pay cut was not a genuine redundancy and that the dismissal was unfair. The tribunal ruled that the employer had not followed proper procedures in the selection process and that the pay cut was not a serious alternative. The new owner of the school, Shafikul Islam, had taken over the company and faced significant financial liabilities. Machado was informed of the pay cut and refused to accept it, leading to her termination. The tribunal found that her pregnancy had no bearing on the decision but noted that the employer should have been more cautious in managing her exit. The ruling emphasized that the dismissal was not a genuine redundancy but a retaliatory measure in response to her concerns and pregnancy.
The High Court has granted permission for a legal challenge regarding the treatment of a Somali refugee who arrived in Ireland alone at age 16. The applicant, now 18, alleges that Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, incorrectly assessed her as an adult in 2024, resulting in her placement in adult accommodation rather than receiving requisite State supports for a minor. Barrister Michael Conlon SC, representing the applicant through the Irish Refugee Council, submitted to Mr Justice Micheál P O'Higgins that this error left the plaintiff unable to navigate basic supports. The case is brought against the Child and Family Agency, the Chief International Protection Officer, the Minister for Justice, the International Protection Service Accommodation Services, Ireland, and the Attorney General. The Irish Refugee Council seeks a court order compelling the Child and Family Agency to re-assess the teenager's need for assistance and, if necessary, provide an adult aftercare plan under the Child Care Act 1991. It is claimed that the applicant was entitled to a presumption of childhood upon her arrival in March 2024 and that the failure to follow lawful age-assessment procedures breached the International Protection Act 2015. The applicant successfully claimed international protection in 2024 and holds a Temporary Residence Certificate until 2028. The court's decision permits the applicant to establish whether she is entitled to an aftercare support programme, addressing the alleged lack of access to child education and supports during her time in inappropriate adult accommodation.
The Workplace Relations Commission has ordered Ryan's Investments Unlimited Company, trading as Hertz Rent-A-Car, to pay €10,000 in compensation and issue an apology to applicant Kim Murphy. The adjudicator upheld Murphy's complaint of disability discrimination under the Equal Status Act 2000, finding that the franchisee's policy of imposing a €150 valet charge for hair shed by her guide dog, Django, placed her at a particular disadvantage. The tribunal determined that the company's refusal to waive the fee, despite being notified of the guide dog's presence, was unreasonable and failed to accommodate the needs of a person with a disability. Murphy alleged that her husband, Anthony Murphy, was charged for "damage" upon returning a rental vehicle from the Dublin Airport branch in April 2024, despite the dog being a trained service animal. The adjudicator directed the respondent to update its rental policies to accommodate similar customers. Sean Beatty BL represented the applicant, while Eve Bolster BL appeared for the franchisee. The decision constitutes a finalised sentence ordering the specified financial compensation and formal apology.
A woman who stole over €1,200 worth of clothing from Marks and Spencer has been fined €1,500 by a judge at Dún Laoghaire District Court. Susan McCullough, 41, pleaded guilty to the theft, which occurred on April 23, 2025. The court heard that the stolen items were of significant value and consisted of various pieces of clothing. Defence counsel, Michael O'Brien BL, explained that McCullough had recently started a new job and was dealing with personal difficulties, including caring for her grandfather, mental health struggles, and grief following the death of her grandmother. The court was informed that McCullough had issues with alcohol at the time and accepted that she had no good excuse for the theft. A letter from her GP outlined her struggles with anxiety, depression, and emotional dysregulation. Judge Anne Watkin acknowledged the seriousness of the offence but noted the steps McCullough had taken since, including engaging with counselling services.
A sushi chef who was dismissed while on sick leave following a miscarriage has been awarded €8,000 in compensation for unfair dismissal. Beacon Sushi Ltd, which operates Michie Sushi in Dublin, was found to have breached the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 following a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The chef was terminated just days after suffering a miscarriage on 8 December 2024. The company's managing director, Michael Piare, sent a message of condolence but later terminated her employment via WhatsApp. The tribunal found that the company's stated reason for dismissal—breaches of absence reporting policy—was not reasonable given the employee's miscarriage. The adjudicator ruled the dismissal unfair and awarded the worker €8,000 for her losses.
A man from Belmullet, County Mayo has failed in a discrimination claim brought before the Workplace Relations Commission following a meeting about employment with the Erris Chamber of Commerce in April 2025. James Monaghan alleged that during a discussion with the chamber's chairman, Brian Bakeberg, he faced inappropriate questions concerning his age, nationality, gender expression and personal habits. He also claimed he was told to cut his hair as a condition of employment. Mr Bakeberg disputed that a formal interview took place, characterising the encounter as a brief informal chat. He explained that questions about age were relevant to eligibility for community employment schemes, while other remarks were made in attempting to establish rapport. Adjudicator Conor Stokes rejected all grounds of the complaint, finding no evidence of discrimination relating to age, nationality or gender expression. The case was heard online on 8 January 2026.
A former public servant, Seanán Ó Coistín, is set to have his employment rights claims heard in Irish later this year. He alleges he was penalised for criticising the standard of Irish at the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. Ó Coistín claims his rights under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, the Protection of Employment (Fixed-Term Work) Act 2003, and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 were breached during his time at the FSAI. He made a protected disclosure about the level of ability in Irish before leaving his position in late 2024. Counsel for the respondent, Paul Gough, stated that Ó Coistín was engaged via a recruitment agency on fixed-term contracts, the last of which expired at the end of the year. Ó Coistín filed a complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, but it is unclear if later complaints in July 2025 were timely. During his hearing, Ó Coistín brought food and drink labelled in Irish and asked the adjudicator if he spoke Irish.
The High Court has formally censured suspended Roscommon solicitor Declan O'Callaghan following an application by the Law Society. The decision stems from an upheld finding of misconduct regarding a 2006 Mayo land deal involving Nirvanna Property Holdings Ltd, a company run by Tom Fleming. While O'Callaghan successfully appealed three other allegations of misconduct, the court upheld one count concerning a conflict of interest. A disciplinary tribunal had previously recommended striking O'Callaghan off the roll of solicitors, a recommendation put on hold pending this appeal. The case involved a land transfer where the vendor claimed they were owed €250,000, a figure O'Callaghan argued referred to the land's valuation rather than a debt. Mr Justice Micheal O'Higgins stated that acting for both the vendor and the purchaser in the same transaction brought the profession into disrepute and represented a serious falling short of professional standards. The judge noted that O'Callaghan should have advised Nirvanna and Fleming to seek independent legal advice. Although O'Callaghan denied impropriety, citing security requirements for a Bank of Ireland loan for a joint venture with the late Fred Preston, the court found his conduct unacceptable. The Law Society nominated a censure and did not seek costs. The court ordered the censure but made no order as to the costs of the appeal.
The Central Bank of Ireland has settled a dispute with a former forensic investigator, Nigar Babayeva, who was dismissed after alleging she faced ill treatment by a manager. The settlement was confirmed at a hearing before the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), where Babayeva signed documents to withdraw her complaints under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014. Babayeva was sacked in July 2023 after filing a grievance during her probationary period. Her solicitor, Setanta Landers, stated that HR shared her complaints with the manager, who then terminated her without contractual authority. The manager was not her official supervisor, raising questions about the legitimacy of her dismissal. The Central Bank's legal representative, Niamh McGowan BL, disputed claims that HR shared information with the manager and argued that parts of the case were statute-barred. The tribunal was initially set to hear the case over three sessions, but both parties agreed to a settlement. Adjudicator Orla Jones confirmed the withdrawal of the complaint, and Babayeva signed the form, ending the legal proceedings.
The owner of a Dublin city head shop caught selling cannabis herb had a "mistaken belief" she wasn't breaking the law, a court has heard. Charlene Flynn (37) was present during the search and told gardai she was the owner of the shop, which was part of a franchise that also operated a premises in Cork city. She was arrested in September 2022 and interviewed. She told gardai that cannabinoid oil and CBD products, which she said were regulated under EU food law, were seized by gardai on the day of the search. Ms Flynn said that the products had a level of THC, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis, of under 0.2 per cent and said that "to my knowledge the products are within the legal requirements". Flynn of Hollytree Square, Ballymun later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of drugs for sale or supply at 'Funky Skunk' on June 2, 2022.
Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator Brian Dalton ruled in favour of therapist Nora Martin, awarding her €105,567.38 for unfair dismissal and employment rights breaches against Genesis Psychotherapy and Family Therapy Service Ltd. The adjudicator found that Martin's selection for redundancy was "not fair" and "tainted by a personal animus," describing the employer's conduct as "egregious." He determined there was "no evidence supporting any criminal wrongdoing" regarding fraud allegations related to a 2013 fundraiser, nor any case of bullying. Martin was awarded €90,000 for losses arising from unfair dismissal, €6,227 for non-payment of statutory notice, and €9,340.38 in unpaid wages. The adjudicator rejected the respondent's argument that the delay prejudiced the company, noting the employer had originally sought the 2017 adjournment pending a High Court defamation action. That defamation case remains live. Richard Trehy, the charity's finance manager, was a named subject in the proceedings; he was deceased by the time the WRC heard the substance of the complaint. The matter was previously adjourned in 2017 at the company's request, but the WRC proceeded to a final decision on the employment claims.
Roisin O'Grady, a 45-year-old woman from Monkstown, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to charges of assaulting a garda and public order offences. The court heard that on November 13, 2024, Ms O'Grady was found heavily intoxicated at Balally Luas stop. While being transported to Blackrock Garda Station, she allegedly slapped a garda. Prosecutors stated that while in custody, she used abusive language and, after being restrained, kicked a garda in the back of the head. Judge Anne Watkin noted the seriousness of the assault on police officers. Defence counsel Michael O'Blain BL highlighted that Ms O'Grady has a history of alcohol-related offending, with three previous convictions for public intoxication, though she has had no convictions in over ten years. He stated she entered treatment last year, cooperates with probation services, and has no issues with drugs, attributing her difficulties to alcohol misuse. The judge placed Ms O'Grady on a one-year probation bond. The matter was finalised with this disposal.
A shop worker with a weakened immune system who was dismissed for taking too much sick leave has won €6,500 for disability discrimination. The Workplace Relations Commission ruled that the employer had breached the Employment Equality Act 1998. The worker, who had a heart condition and a stent inserted at age 16, informed her manager during her job interview that she would need time off for medical appointments. She took sick leave for five days in September 2024 and seven days in January 2025 due to illness. The employer claimed her absence rate was unacceptably high during her probation period. The tribunal found that the worker had raised the issue of her disability at the interview stage and that the employer failed to provide reasonable accommodation. The employer was directed to pay €6,500 in compensation and to review its procedures and training to ensure compliance with equality law.
Domestic abuse survivor Margaret Loftus has described her experience of the criminal justice system as 'every bit as damaging as the abuse itself'. Speaking outside the Criminal Courts of Justice, she said the conclusion of the case marked the end of a 'very difficult, traumatic journey' that took 14 years and 58 court appearances. Ms Loftus said Detective Garda Trevor Bolger violently assaulted her and was granted full legal aid by the court. She thanked Judge Martina Baxter, her husband and family, and the investigation team for their support. She expressed disappointment at seeing members of An Garda Siochana support Bolger in court. Ms Loftus thanked all women who have stood against male violence and urged others to come forward if they are victims of domestic abuse. Chief Superintendent Ian Lackey acknowledged the bravery of Ms Loftus and the professionalism of the investigation team. He said An Garda Siochana has a zero tolerance for domestic abuse and encouraged victims to contact the Garda or support services for help.
An Albanian man who claimed to be fleeing a 'blood feud' in Albania was refused refugee status by the Irish State due to inconsistencies in his application. The High Court ruled that the International Protection Appeals Tribunal correctly rejected his claim, citing a lack of credibility in his story. The applicant claimed a family feud had led to threats against him, but inconsistencies in his statements and the long gap between the alleged feud and the threat undermined his claim. The court found that the applicant's story was not plausible and that the tribunal had not erred in refusing an oral hearing. The applicant had also not sought protection in Italy, where he had lived for five months without reporting any threats.
Erick Roa, a hospitality worker at the Marker Hotel in Dublin, alleged that his manager, Matt Sherlock, repeatedly asked invasive questions about his sexuality and country of origin, creating a toxic work environment. Roa began covertly recording his manager to gather evidence of the alleged discrimination. He claimed that Sherlock asked inappropriate questions about his partner's gender and made fun of his accent. Roa resigned in February 2025 after feeling the workplace was not addressing his concerns. The hotel's legal team denied the allegations, stating that Roa's claims were not credible. The tribunal heard that Roa had made multiple complaints, but the HR manager did not follow up. The case was adjourned, with a resumption of the hearing scheduled for March.
Sean O'Brien, a former Portlaoise prison guard, has challenged a Defence Forces tribunal in the High Court after being denied the opportunity to make representations regarding his dismissal in 1989. O'Brien claims he was fired after being shot at with lethal intent while helping to apprehend a paramilitary prisoner during an escape attempt in 1988. He argues that the tribunal's terms of reference should include him as he worked under the Defence Forces' control at the time. O'Brien's legal team asserts that the tribunal's refusal to hear his case was a further trauma, given the impact of the incident on his mental health. The tribunal's legal representative countered that O'Brien was employed by the Department of Justice and not the Defence Forces, and thus fell outside the tribunal's scope. The judge has reserved her decision on the matter.
A woman from Kingscourt, Co Cavan, has been convicted and fined €750 following an assault at a concert venue in Dublin. Sarah Callan, aged 37, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to a Section 2 assault that occurred on 20 June 2024 during a Pink concert at the Aviva Stadium. The court heard that Callan punched a 17-year-old attendant, mistakenly believing he was responsible for an earlier incident involving her husband. The teenager sustained facial injuries requiring medical treatment at the scene. Callan made admissions to gardaí on the night and expressed remorse. Her defence counsel submitted the assault was out of character and consisted of a single punch. Judge Conor Fottrell described the circumstances as concerning and alarming, noting the victim had been a minor performing his duties. He convicted Callan and imposed the fine with seven months to pay. Legal aid was granted.
Sharon Shadiya (22), of Drumcairn Avenue, Tallaght, Dublin 24, pleaded guilty to a money laundering offence arising from an incident on June 15, 2023. The court heard that €1,700 was credited to Shadiya's Revolut account before being transferred on to another account. Shadiya admitted allowing the proceeds of criminal conduct to pass through her Revolut account, contrary to section 7(1)(a)(ii), section 7(1)(b) and section 7(3) of the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010. Detective Sergeant Mick Ormsby informed the court that the two injured parties had since been reimbursed by their banks. Defence solicitor, Michael Hennessy, stated that Shadiya was 20 years old at the time of the offence and has no previous convictions. He said Shadiya was taken advantage of by a male friend, who told her he needed to use her Revolut account to make a purchase online. Mr Hennessy said the matter before the court was one of recklessness rather than knowledge, and that his client had no awareness of the wider fraud involved. He said Shadiya had made a full admission to her limited role, was fully co-operative and had shown genuine remorse, offering an unreserved apology to those who lost money. The court heard that Shadiya works as a care assistant in private home-care and is of good character with a strong work ethic and good prospects for the future. Judge Karen Dowling accepted jurisdiction in the case and adjourned it to April 13 next for the preparation of a probation report.
Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) has paused an investigation into its chief executive, Kenny Jacobs, following a High Court challenge to his suspension. Jacobs was suspended on December 23 after allegations of discriminatory behavior, which he described as "baseless." He claims he was "ambushed" and "humiliated" when told to leave work and not communicate with staff. DAA is resisting legal action from Jacobs, who is seeking to overturn his suspension and halt the investigation. The case is set for an urgent hearing, with both sides agreeing to file affidavits. Jacobs claims the stress from the suspension has been "immense" and that he was left "shell-shocked" after the meeting with the board. The High Court will determine the next steps in the legal dispute.
A psychologist, Dr Emma McDonnell, is challenging the HSE's attempt to recover a €40,000 overpayment from her salary, arguing that the deductions are unfair and unreasonable. The overpayment occurred due to a payroll error during her parental and maternity leave in 2022 and 2023. Dr McDonnell's legal team claims the HSE's approach to recovering the funds violates the Payment of Wages Act 1991, as it lacks fair procedures. The HSE maintains that the deductions are lawful and appropriate. The adjudicator, Brian Dalton, described the legal argument as "truly novel" and adjourned the case to allow for written submissions. The case has significant implications for similar disputes. Dr McDonnell's legal team is represented by Anne Marie Daly of Dominic Dowling LLP, while the HSE is represented by Ger Connolly of Mason Hayes and Curran LLP.
A human resources worker, Jadene Maclou, faced challenges in her employment tribunal claim after admitting to using AI assistance in preparing her legal submissions. At the Workplace Relations Commission, her former employer's barrister highlighted inaccuracies in her legal papers, suggesting some references were 'hallucinations' that could not be verified. Ms Maclou alleged penalisation in breach of the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 against her former employer, Virtuoso Learning Ltd. Representing herself, she claimed a 'clear pattern of penalisation' for speaking out about matters at the business. The adjudicator, Penelope McGrath, requested a concise summary of her position and the law she was relying on. Ms Maclou acknowledged using AI assistance, but the adjudicator emphasized the burden of proof on the claimant to ensure the cited cases exist. The matter was adjourned until the end of February for the exchange of new legal submissions.
The WRC reported on two distinct employment matters involving applicants Ali Izzy and Fernando Oliveira. In September, Ali Izzy, a former software salesman at Solar Winds Software Europe DAC, alleged he was dismissed for insubordination after his ex-boss approved a €500,000 discount in a side deal with a supplier described as having a history of corruption. Izzy claimed he was left without work and resorted to food delivery. The WRC is currently considering his case. In October, Ryanair lawyers challenged the filings of flight attendant Fernando Oliveira, pointing to phantom legal rulings potentially generated by AI. Oliveira initially denied this but later acknowledged he may have used AI. The tribunal deemed the phantom citations egregious and an abuse of process. Following this, the WRC published guidelines stating parties must take full responsibility for submissions and that AI tools should not be relied upon as legal advice. In a separate October case, a chef who admitted using ChatGPT to draft a statement was found to have made a misrepresentation regarding a sexual harassment complaint, which was rejected. These rulings highlight the tribunal's scrutiny of AI-assisted legal submissions and the ongoing adjudication of complex employment disputes.
A mother has reached a resolution in her case against Tusla, The Child and Family Agency, regarding her newborn son who became unwell after being taken into State care. The High Court ruled that the mother will be allowed to express milk under supervision on certain mornings and breastfeed the child in the afternoons. While her legal representatives expressed dissatisfaction with the terms, they indicated they might be acceptable. The mother, who cannot be named by court order, claims that the child met all his developmental markers for the first two weeks after birth while she was breastfeeding him in hospital. She stated that the child was removed due to her mental health issues and that her GP prescribed Xanax and Quetiapine, which she claimed were safe for breastfeeding. The child then rejected formula milk, failed to meet weight markers, vomited frequently, and was prescribed Gaviscon, sometimes up to six times a day.
A Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) adjudicator, Séamus Clinton, has initiated a case against the State, alleging mistreatment and gender-related discrimination. He filed complaints under the Employment Equality Act 1998, the Protection of Employees (Provision of Information and Consultation) Act 2006, and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 against the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment. A preliminary hearing at Lansdowne House in Dublin heard that the dispute relates to a competition issue. Clinton, a former trade union official appointed to the WRC in 2022, presides over employment rights disputes and discrimination claims. Counsel for the State, Stephen Hanaphy BL, requested an adjournment to consider submissions filed on Wednesday, citing the case's unique nature and the enhanced version of the claim. Michael Kinsley BL, for the complainant, agreed to the adjournment, noting that the claim had been dramatically enhanced. The original complaint included age discrimination and a claim against the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER), but these have been dropped, focusing now on gender discrimination. The case also involves alleged victimisation and whistleblower penalisation.
A long-running dispute between a stepfather and three bereaved siblings over the operation and ownership of a Co Meath nursing home has finally settled "in principle" at the High Court. In October of last year, nursing home co-owner Jim Cahill was judged to have left his bereaved step-children alone in the family home before he "cut them off from all income" and was ordered to pay them €410,000 in damages and legal fees. Their mother, Brigid Seepersad, died in a road traffic incident while on holiday in 2008, days after she and Mr Cahill divorced. Ms Justice Eileen Roberts said the now-adult Tara, Karl and Desmond Seepersad had, for some years, been without income due under a 2009-2010 settlement agreement with their estranged stepfather, Jim (John James) Cahill. At the High Court today, in finalising that order, Ms Justice Roberts heard from Thomas P Conlan SC, for Mr Cahill, that the matter had "settled in principle" between the parties.
A driver who collided with a motorcyclist who claimed he was 'filtering' through traffic had a charge of careless driving dismissed after a judge criticized the motorcyclist's dangerous behavior. Judge Anne Watkin noted that the motorcyclist had overtaken cars in their own lane, which was illegal and highly dangerous. The collision occurred during heavy traffic, and the motorcyclist claimed he was filtering through the congestion. However, the judge stated that the motorcyclist had no right to overtake in that manner and that his actions were breaking the law. The motorcyclist was found to have a cut and swelling from the collision but declined hospital treatment. The judge ruled that the driver, Ms Arta Kroni, could not reasonably have been expected to see the motorcyclist or anticipate his actions, leading to the dismissal of the charge of driving without due care and attention against her. Arta Kroni pleaded not guilty.
An executive who was dismissed by video call just days before his one-year work anniversary has been awarded €180,000 for unfair dismissal, the largest such award in 2025. David Haran was employed as chief of staff by Hed Unity Limited, earning €160,000 annually, but was informed of his dismissal on 14 April 2022 during a video call with the CEO and a director. He had been promised an €80,000 bonus and other benefits under his contract, which was signed only by him. The tribunal ruled that the dismissal was unfair and unlawful, noting that the company failed to provide evidence justifying the termination. The adjudicator extended the qualifying period for the Unfair Dismissals Act due to the lack of full notice pay, leading to a higher award. Haran was left unemployed for six weeks before finding new work at a lower salary, and the tribunal acknowledged the significant financial loss he incurred.
Leonardo Fernandez, 29, of Coolock, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to assaulting a security worker and a public order offence on 30 December 2024 at Meta's Ballsbridge premises in Dublin 4. The defendant, a former kitchen porter, admitted to the charges after Gardaí alleged he lingered on the site before running towards the pedestrian entrance. Prosecution evidence stated that when a security officer attempted to speak to him, Fernandez swung his arms towards the worker, causing the officer to fall and hit his head. Fernandez was subsequently restrained by staff. Defence solicitor Patricia Camilon submitted that Fernandez believed he had arranged to meet a former colleague, who allegedly used his photograph without consent to create a false dating profile intended to control him and tarnish his image. She argued he reported the matter to Gardaí previously and attended the premises as a last resort. Judge Anne Watkin described the case as "very strange" and noted that the defendant's behaviour resulted in injury to the security worker. The court heard Fernandez has no previous convictions. The matter was adjourned for a probation report and a victim impact statement from the injured party to 27 April at Dún Laoghaire District Court for finalisation.
Meta has been granted permission to challenge a potential fine of up to €430 million from the Data Protection Commission (DPC) over data processing issues. The company argues that the DPC acted outside its powers by expanding the investigation beyond the original complaint to all Facebook users. Meta Platforms Ireland Ltd applied for judicial review, and the court granted a stay on the fine until next year. The case stems from a 2018 complaint about access to personal data stored in a 'Hive' digital warehouse. Meta claims the DPC overstepped by suggesting the complainant's request had a 'general application' for other users. The court will hear the case again in January. Meta seeks a declaration that the DPC acted beyond its powers and a quashing of the draft decision. The judge ruled in favor of Meta, putting a stay on the DPC's findings pending the outcome of the case.
An ex-accountant with nearly 18 years of service at a Dundalk arcade and bingo hall operator has claimed she was unfairly made redundant despite being told by her employer that the business was 'flying'. Siobhán McDonagh, who earned over €50,000 as a financial controller, is seeking nearly €40,000 in lost earnings through a complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977. She alleges that her employer, James P McCann Ireland Ltd, provided no justification for her redundancy. The tribunal heard that the company, which once had interests in 12 businesses, is now in 'extreme financial difficulties' with only two arcades remaining in Dublin. Ms McDonagh said she was 'laughed at' when she asked about a redundancy lump sum, and was told to claim it from the State. She claimed the company was 'doing well' at the time of her dismissal. The company's managing director, Seoirse McCann, stated that the business was in financial trouble and that the redundancy was necessary to reduce costs. The case highlights the dispute over whether the redundancy was justified or unfair.
A tribunal hearing involving Aer Lingus pilot Declan McCabe, who was demoted from captain to first officer following an incident on 8 June 2023, has been adjourned to the new year by Adjudicator John Harraghy. McCabe is contesting statutory complaints brought under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, and the Payment of Wages Act 1997 at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). McCabe claims the incident, which involved a failure to link up with a navigation beacon on approach to Dublin airport, was a 'non-event' and that the use of the word 'apologies' by his first officer was a reflection of his 'manners' as a 'well-educated, posh Belvedere boy'. Aer Lingus denies the complaints and has argued that McCabe failed to submit a timely air safety report and provided 'inaccurate information' to air traffic control. McCabe alleges the demotion was part of a 'predetermined' process aimed at penalising him, linked to a 2011 dispute over fatigue. The matter was adjourned and will resume in the new year.
At the High Court, Mr Justice Max Barrett ordered John Magnier, JP Magnier, and Katherine Wachman to pay estimated €4 million in legal costs following their failed 19-day challenge to the sale of a Tipperary estate. The applicants had sought to enforce a purported €15 million 'handshake deal' with Richard Thomson-Moore, while the Barne Estate defendants alleged no such agreement existed and subsequently sold the land to Maurice Regan for €22.25 million. In a costs hearing, the judge awarded exceptional costs at the higher legal practitioner-client level, stating that the plaintiffs had 'lied' in their accounts and changed their story when initial evidence was found to be 'demonstrably untrue.' The judge described this conduct as a 'disrespect' of the court and the defendants. Counsel for the Magnier side, Paul Gallagher SC, rejected allegations of 'lawfare' and described his client as a man of honour, while opposing counsel Martin Hayden SC argued the Magnier side acted on a false premise. The Magnier side has indicated an intention to appeal the judgment delivered last September. The matter was adjourned regarding the appeal process, and the judge noted no criticism of the legal teams on either side.
A Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator awarded Karen McHale, a Mayo University Hospital clerical worker, €58,681.60 for constructive dismissal. The adjudicator found that the hospital's grievance management process was "fundamentally flawed." Ms McHale alleged she was subjected to "toxic behaviour" and was ordered to attend mediation with a colleague without being provided a copy of the grievance he had filed against her. Her barrister, Michael Francis Forde BL, submitted that management sided with the complainant, leaving Ms McHale isolated and bypassed in the reporting structure. The hospital's employee relations manager, Rory Kavanagh, admitted the hospital did not provide the complaint copy but argued Ms McHale failed to exhaust internal avenues before resigning on 17 March 2024. Adjudication officer Conor Stokes rejected this, stating a reasonable employer would have concluded the process was flawed. He determined Ms McHale was left with no option but to resign. The award includes €41,831 for the loss of a pension lump sum following 23 years' service. Ms McHale was represented by Aileen Feely of JV Geary Solicitors.
A mother has claimed that her baby is becoming ill due to the withdrawal of breast milk after the child was taken into care by the Child and Family Agency. The mother says the baby has rejected formula milk, is vomiting after feeds, and has not met weight markers. She is seeking a High Court order to allow breastfeeding to resume for the baby's health. The court heard that the mother had tested negative for opiates and that the prescribed medication was safe for breastfeeding. The judge described the application as unusual and noted that the case would require further affidavits before a decision could be made. The mother expressed concern over the lack of response from the CFA and the impact on the baby's wellbeing.
A tribunal has ruled that a Portuguese man suffered racial discrimination when polling staff refused to give him a ballot for the local elections in Co Galway. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) upheld a complaint of discrimination under the Equal Status Act 2000 against the returning officer for Co Galway. The tribunal ordered extra training for polling station staff after both Mr da Silva and his wife were told they did not have the right to vote in the local elections, despite living in Ireland for decades. Mr da Silva, a Portuguese national resident in Ireland for 30 years, was told by a poll official that he was only entitled to vote in the European elections. He was surprised and felt embarrassed, as if he had done something wrong. His wife, Maria de Almeida Silva, was also told she was not entitled to vote in the local elections but was later allowed to vote after challenging the poll clerk.
A teenager has been awarded €700,000 by the High Court following the HSE's admission of liability for failures in ante-natal care at Mayo University Hospital in Castlebar during 2009. The girl, now aged sixteen, sued the health authority through her mother over circumstances surrounding her birth. The court heard that a cardiotocography monitor remained unconnected between 2am and 6am on the morning of delivery on November 14th, 2009. The infant was born in poor condition and subsequently transferred to Temple Street Children's Hospital, where an MRI scan revealed diffuse abnormalities consistent with hypoxia ischaemia, a condition involving oxygen deprivation and reduced blood flow. The plaintiff's legal team submitted that midwives failed to commence continuous heart-rate monitoring and did not seek assistance from senior staff when concerning signs emerged. The child was referred to Early Intervention Services and later exhibited a range of neuropsychological difficulties, including fine motor and spatial skill deficits. Mr Justice Paul Coffey approved the settlement, noting the girl's progress in both academic and sporting pursuits.
A veteran Irish executive, Caroline O'Connell, described the stress of discovering she was being demoted from her role as managing director at a multinational company through a company newsletter. She spent 24 years with the firm, which is part of the international translation and localisation group Lionbridge. O'Connell raised concerns about being expected to sit on the dole for a year due to a non-compete clause after being unfairly dismissed from her high-earning position. Her former employer has conceded the unfair dismissal claim, and the Workplace Relations Commission is considering redress, with over half a million euro in dispute. O'Connell's barrister, Stephen Moran BL, argued that she was "unceremoniously ousted" in a "sham redundancy" in November 2024. She claimed she was informed of the job change in a newsletter in July 2024, which was particularly stressful after her long tenure. O'Connell also mentioned that she was given notice of the risk to her role just two days after a grievance process.
Adjudicator John Harraghy has adjourned overnight the Workplace Relations Commission hearing involving Aer Lingus pilot Declan McCabe, who is pursuing statutory complaints under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, and the Payment of Wages Act 1997. Aer Lingus contests these claims. Mr McCabe alleges he felt "under duress" during a safety investigation into a June 2023 navigation incident to attribute the issue to human error rather than a "technical difficulty with the aircraft." He denies management findings that he failed to submit a timely safety report and provided inaccurate information to Air Nav Ireland. Cross-examination focused on whether the aircraft was establishing for the wrong runway and whether this constituted a reportable matter. Mr McCabe stated that evidence pointing to multi-mode receiver issues was withheld from him. He was demoted from captain to first officer in January 2024, a sanction he alleges was predetermined penalisation linked to a 2011 fatigue dispute. The matter was adjourned overnight, with hearings scheduled for two more days this week.
A man who attempted to punch a garda while being taken to Tallaght Garda Station has been sent for a probation report. Deividas Subacius (46) pleaded guilty to threatening and abusive behaviour, intoxication, and violent behaviour on 2 November last year. The court heard that Gardaí were responding to a domestic incident when they encountered Subacius outside an apartment block. He was highly intoxicated, aggressive, and shouted abuse at the officers. During the arrest, he attempted to strike a garda in the back on the way to the station, requiring eight officers to restrain him. Upon arrival at the station, it took eight Gardaí to subdue him and place him in a cell. Subacius has nine previous convictions, including eight for public order and one for assault. Judge Karen Dowling ordered a probation report and adjourned the matter to 6 March, 2026.
Aidan Moore, a survivor of sexual abuse, expressed that today is a victory for all victims of sexual abuse crimes. He acknowledged the courage of the victims and their families, as well as the work of An Garda Siochana and the DPP in bringing justice. Moore highlighted the importance of victims coming forward and being heard, especially in light of the Blackrock Boys documentary that exposed the abuse at Willow Park and Blackrock College. He encouraged others to seek help from organizations such as One in Four and Restore Together. Moore emphasized that sexual abuse remains a live issue and that adults must be proactive in protecting children. He concluded by stating that his presence today is to make a difference in even one person's life, showing that victims are not alone and that justice can be achieved.
A family of five living in a caravan on the side of a busy road in Limerick has been granted High Court leave to challenge a decision by Limerick County Council that they are not homeless. The family, who have no running water or a toilet, were told they were not homeless because they have a roof over their head. They previously refused offers of temporary accommodation due to safety concerns and criminal threats against the father. The family is seeking a court declaration that they are in need of emergency accommodation and a quashing of the council's decision. The court heard that the family has a history of housing applications and has faced discrimination and anti-social behaviour in previous accommodations. The case was adjourned to January for further proceedings.