An asylum seeker who had a child with a security guard at a direct provision centre sought to register the boy's birth certificate with the father's surname. The Registrar General refused, saying the father must attend in person and consent. The mother, represented by Feichin McDonagh SC and Brendan Hennessy Bl, brought a High Court action demanding the Registrar to register the surname under the 2004 Civil Registration Act. She argued the refusal was flawed, irrational, and outside the Registrar's powers, and that the boy had a right to the surname where evidence of the father's identity existed. The court heard the mother's relationship with the father had ended before the birth and that she had a maintenance order against him. The case was resolved when the father's surname was finally registered on the child's birth certificate, and the matter was struck out.
Paul Keating, 23, pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms at his Dublin home on 27 October 2017. A garda detective, conducting a drugs search for cocaine, discovered broken firearm parts. She noted that young people often store gun parts to settle drug debts and believed Keating was under pressure. Judge Elma Sheehan warned him of the seriousness of the offence and that he should feel ashamed. Defence counsel Keith Spencer BL argued the parts were in poor condition, incapable of firing, and not intended as film props. He emphasised that the components were tools of a dangerous industry. The judge adjourned sentencing to allow the defence to submit further reports. No further details of the case were provided.
In November 2017 a High Court judge ordered the extradition of Denis Harrington, a 42‑year‑old from Cork, to the Netherlands for seven alleged fraud offences between 2014 and 2015. The Dutch authorities allege that Harrington, as part of a group of Irish Travellers, targeted mainly senior homeowners with a roof‑repair scam. Victims were told urgent roof work was needed; the men then removed roof tiles and battens, causing leaks and damage. Harrington was arrested under a European Arrest Warrant issued by Dutch authorities in August 2017. His lawyers challenged the warrant, arguing it was verbal and contained ambiguities. The judge noted the warrant incorrectly listed ten offences and clarified it covered seven. Harrington is currently serving a prison sentence in Ireland until 20 December, after which the court will finalize the extradition order. The case centres on the alleged use of false names, fictitious companies, and coercive tactics to obtain payments from victims.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on 7 November 2018, Wong Chung Sing, a 28‑year‑old Malaysian national, pleaded guilty to possession of almost €100,000 worth of cannabis. The drugs, valued at €98,530, were found in a black bag he carried across the city to a second man for a fee of about €100. Garda Donal O'Sullivan, on plain‑clothes patrol, observed the transaction at a Tesco store and stopped both men. Sing claimed he was asked to transport the bag and that he had no prior convictions. During his custody, Sing alleged that a cellmate set his mattress on fire, an act he described as an attempt to set him on fire. Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin adjourned sentencing to 14 November 2018. The case remains pending as of the hearing date.
The High Court has dismissed an application by former Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan for an order allowing her to bring a defamation action against the Irish Examiner. Ms O'Sullivan, who served as Commissioner from 2014 to 2017, claimed the newspaper defamed her in an October 2016 article. The newspaper denied the article was defamatory and opposed her bid to extend the statutory time limit. Under the 2009 Defamation Act, litigants have 12 months to sue, though the court can extend this to two years. Ms Justice Teresa Pilkington refused the extension, ruling that Ms O'Sullivan's reasons for delay were insufficient to disapply the one-year limit. The judge noted that Ms O'Sullivan could have instituted proceedings within the statutory period and that her decision not to do so had consequences. The judge further stated that the prejudice to the newspaper in losing its limitation defence outweighed the prejudice to the plaintiff. The matter was adjourned for two weeks to allow the parties to consider the decision. The underlying article reported that two senior Gardaí, Supt Dave Taylor and Sgt Maurice McCabe, made statements under protected disclosure legislation. These allegations were raised in the Dáil by Michael Martin, leading to a Commission of Inquiry conducted by Mr Justice Peter Charleton. Ms O'Sullivan argued she was under intense strain until the tribunal concluded, while the newspaper maintained it published matters of significant public interest.
Patrick Wheelock, an engineer and businessman, has taken the High Court to challenge the appointment of Stephen Tennant of Grant Thornton as receiver over his Monvoy lands in County Waterford. Wheelock alleges that the signatures on deeds of mortgage, purportedly charging his property to the now-defunct Anglo Irish Bank, are forgeries. He claims he never agreed to any mortgage or charge and was unaware of the purported deeds until 2014, when he sued his former accountant for alleged fraud and misappropriation of €7.9 million. The accountant had allegedly falsified Wheelock's signature on documents dated 2003 and 2008, creating security interests in favour of Anglo. NAMA acquired the mortgages, sold them to Promontoria in 2017, and Promontoria appointed a receiver to bypass commercial court proceedings. Wheelock seeks orders preventing the receiver from selling or advertising the Monvoy lands, which he intends to develop. The case is currently before the Commercial Court, with the matter returned to Friday's sitting.
The High Court ordered the surrender of an unnamed man to the UK to face a murder charge. He had claimed that if extradited to Northern Ireland's Maghaberry Prison he would be subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Aileen Donnelly, considered the man's alleged risk of self‑harm and the overall safety protocols of the Northern Irish Prison System. She noted that the system had robust inspection and risk‑assessment procedures and that any adverse findings had been acted upon. The court found no substantial risk that the man would be subjected to inhuman or degrading treatment if surrendered. The man is wanted to face a charge of murdering 30‑year‑old Jennifer Dornan, who was stabbed to death in her burning house in Hazel View, west Belfast, in August 2015.
In a High Court decision on 2 November 2018, Mr Justice Seamus Noonan granted summary judgment to Launceston Property Finance Designated Activity Company against Mr John Walls, a businessman from Coney Hill, Balbriggan. The fund sought €1.32 million, the amount of loans it had acquired from the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation in 2014, including a €1 million loan advanced by the now-defunct Anglo Irish Bank to Mr Walls in 2008. Launceston demanded repayment in November 2016; when Mr Walls failed to pay, the fund sued for summary judgment. Mr Walls argued he had a defensible case, citing a binding compromise agreement entered in 2016 between his solicitor, Mr James Flynn, and an agent of Launceston. The judge found no evidence of such an agreement and dismissed all of Mr Walls' defenses, concluding that he had no reasonable probability of establishing a bona fide defense.
In November 2018 the High Court heard a claim by joint receivers Stephen Tennant and Nicholas O'Dwyer of Grant Thornton, appointed over about 27 acres at Coney Hill, Ballbriggan, to prevent the sale of the land. The receivers alleged that the landowner John Walls Senior, his son John Walls Junior and Fingal Target Sporting Club were attempting to frustrate the sale by obstructing access. Temporary injunctions were granted requiring the Walls and the club to remove any vehicle or obstacle from entrances and exits and to surrender vacant possession to the receivers. The receivers said they feared the sale agreement, entered in mid‑October, could be lost due to the defendants' alleged unlawful actions. They also sought a judgment of €1.4 million against Mr Walls Senior for failing to repay a loan secured by the land. The injunction was granted ex‑parte by Justice Teresa Pilkington and is returnable next week.
In a High Court case in Co. Wexford, a dispute between John B. Dockrell Ltd and farmer Mr. John Kinsella over 150 acres at Lodgewood was resolved. The company had obtained an injunction after alleging that Kinsella had trespassed, blocked access with concrete blocks and vehicles, and illegally ploughed the land. Kinsella, who represented himself, contested the allegations and was later imprisoned for contempt of court. After a brief stay at Mountjoy Prison, he complied with the injunction. The parties reached a settlement, and the court granted orders preventing Kinsella and those acting with him from trespassing or obstructing the property, while allowing costs orders to be adjourned with permission to re‑enter if the orders were breached. The judge approved the settlement and the orders were granted.
In a settlement announced on 31 October 2018, FBD Insurance Plc withdrew its claim against Claregalway Leisure Centre Ltd and Frank McNabb Insurances Public Loss Assessors Ltd. The dispute centred on an alleged fraudulent invoice from a flooring company that was used to claim €32,800 in interim payment and €6,000 in loss‑adjuster fees for roof and interior repairs after a 2009 storm. FBD sought the return of these amounts, arguing the invoice was inflated. Claregalway Leisure Centre denied the fraud allegations and counter‑claimed that it was entitled to approximately €82,000 under its policy, of which €32,800 had been paid, but the insurer refused the balance. The centre also sought exemplary damages and a full indemnity from the loss assessor. After the case was adjourned, the parties reached a settlement and the claim was struck out by Mr Justice Michael McGrath.
The Irish High Court froze a retirement fund worth £167,000 held by a Dublin‑registered financial services company for Mr Michael 'Lionella Boscardi' Cowan, a UK film producer under investigation for alleged fraud. The order followed a UK request to recognise a 2017 external freezing by a London court, applied under the 2008 Criminal Mutual Assistance Act. The court heard that UK authorities suspect Cowan and others of defrauding 246 investors of £11.2 million between 2012 and 2016, laundering the money through various company accounts, banks, third‑party disbursements and personal expenses. Investors were reportedly offered high‑return film‑investment opportunities linked to UK tax relief, directed to pay entities tied to films that never materialised, and received certificates allegedly signed by Cowan. Cowan denies wrongdoing, claims stress and autism, and says he was a victim of fraud. The retirement policy, paid for with investor funds, began before the alleged fraud. The High Court adjourned the matter.
In a High Court case involving two dentists who shared premises at Market Point, Mullingar, the dispute was settled after both parties withdrew all allegations. Dr Michael Maguire had alleged that Dr James Hiney installed a secret camera to surveil his staff, while Hiney claimed the camera was for security and not for spying. Maguire sought injunctions to prevent Hiney from monitoring his employees. Following a second mediation, the parties agreed to strike out the case. The settlement included a statement that both dentists withdrew all claims of improper conduct, acknowledged that Hiney's CCTV was not intended to surveil Maguire or his patients, and that any contact with patients was not for solicitation. No further details of the agreement were disclosed. The case was dismissed by the court.
The High Court has appointed a provisional liquidator to Taiga Shtof Ltd, a company based at Laburnum House, Fairgreen Road, Ballymote, County Sligo, which manufactures and distributes premium Russian vodka. Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds appointed insolvency practitioner Shane McCarthy of KPMG following confirmation that the company is insolvent and unable to meet its debts. The appointment was made after the court heard that the company encountered difficulties arising from a shareholder dispute. Production deadlines were allegedly not met, and the company faced funding shortfalls and unpaid expenses, causing significant business delays. The product, originally scheduled for launch in September 2016, was not released until December of that year. Two of the shareholders petitioned the court seeking a liquidator's appointment to preserve the company's brand and intellectual property for creditors. The petition also sought to facilitate execution of an exclusive United States distribution agreement required before November 7th. The judge adjourned the matter to a date in the following month.
In a High Court hearing on 24 October 2018, Justice Carmel Stewart dismissed a Dublin couple's application for legal aid to challenge the Criminal Asset Bureau's (CAB) claim that a house on Casement Drive, an apartment in Bulgaria and about €72,000 in cash were proceeds of crime. CAB had obtained freezing orders in November 2016 under the Proceeds of Crime Act against Mr Jason Boyle and his parents, Laurence and Rosaleen Boyle, for the said assets. The Boyles denied the claim, asserting the cash was savings from Mr Boyle's business over ten years and that the properties were purchased with proceeds from their former home and family loans. Mr Boyle, aged 58, described the cash as hidden due to mistrust of banks and to protect his son with a drug problem. Mrs Boyle, aged 56, said she was not working.
The High Court has adjourned an application by the Revenue Commissioners to wind up Limerick FC, a League of Ireland Premier Division club. The Collector General has petitioned to have Munster Football Club Ltd, trading as Limerick FC, wound up following an alleged failure to pay a tax demand issued in mid-September for outstanding PAYE and PRSI contributions. The company's registered address is listed at Kirby O'Sullivan Sports, Social & Business Park, Bruff, County Limerick. During a brief mention before Mr Justice David Keane, counsel for the Collector General informed the court that both parties had agreed to adjourn the petition for three weeks. The court will revisit the matter once Limerick FC's senior men's team completes their remaining fixtures, including a promotion and relegation play-off against Donegal side Finn Harps.
Blue Diamond Sports Ltd, trading as Dundalk Bureau de Change, and its sister company Blue Diamond Sports No 2 Ltd have applied to the High Court for an injunction to stop the Bank of Ireland from terminating their banking relationship. The banks claim the firms are linked to money‑laundering activity and have therefore decided to close their accounts. Blue Diamond denies any wrongdoing, arguing that the bank's decision is discriminatory, disproportionate, lacks objectivity and is unlawful. The firm, which acts as an agent for Moneygram International Ltd, says it has been unable to secure alternative banking services and that the loss of its accounts would force it out of business. The application seeks declarations that the bank's withdrawal of services is unlawful, discriminatory, disproportionate and breaches EU payment‑services regulations.
Nan Wu, 36, of Blanchardstown, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to controlling and directing prostitution for gain in 2015. A Garda officer, after a public complaint about a high number of male visitors at a massage parlour in Olivemount, visited the establishment on 17 April 2017. The officer was shown a treatment room containing a naked woman and man. Wu admitted knowledge that her employees performed sex acts for money and disclosed a second massage parlour where similar acts occurred. Defence counsel argued there was no coercion, no sexual intercourse, and that the acts were considered "manual relief". Wu claimed she believed the activities were legal and had not directly profited, as employees kept the money. She has no prior convictions, lives with two children, and is originally from Dalian, China. Judge Elma Sheahan ordered a probation report and adjourned the case to 15 January next year.
In a High Court case that could have stopped the promotion of hundreds of Gardaí to sergeant, Garda Keith Blythe sought an injunction to pause the Garda Sergeant Promotion Competition until his internal appeal over an alleged inappropriate interview question was fully investigated. Blythe claimed a senior officer asked him about "whistleblowers," which he said was unsuitable and affected his score of 205 out of 250. He also demanded a declaration that the promotion system was irregular and flawed, and sought damages for breach of contract and duty. The Minister for Justice and the Garda Commissioner opposed the application. The case was adjourned several times, and on Thursday Andrew Walker Bl informed Justice Caroline Costello that the matter had been resolved and could be struck out, though no settlement details were disclosed. Blythe, who works in the legal department at Garda Headquarters, had argued that the system lacked transparency, probity and fairness and was not merit‑based.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing, Matthew Ellis, aged 38, admitted to threatening a shop security guard, Patrick Collins, that he would return to kill him after finishing a pizza. Ellis claimed he knew the guard's shift end time and would come back once he had eaten. He had previously threatened the guard earlier that day and returned around 9 pm holding five bullets between his teeth, which he displayed to the guard. He called the guard a "garda informer" and shouted, "You finish at ten o'clock. I own Inchicore. I'm gonna kill you." Gardaí were called, stopped Ellis, and the bullets fell from him. Ellis pleaded guilty to making a threat to kill or cause serious harm. He has been in custody since the incident and has 71 prior convictions, including assault, burglary, possession of knives, drug dealing and robbery.
Infront Italy SPA, acting as an agent for the Serie A Professional Football League, obtained a High Court freezing order to prevent Media Partners & Silva Limited from reducing its assets below €18 million. The order arose from a dispute over payments for the international audiovisual rights to Serie A matches, which Media Partners & Silva had agreed to hold from the 2015‑16 to the 2017‑18 seasons for €4.68 million per season. Infront claimed that, as of June 2018, it was owed approximately €22 million, a debt acknowledged by the defendant's CEO. Media Partners & Silva had agreed to monthly payments of €5.5 million from September to December 2018, but none were made. The court granted the injunction ex‑parte on Tuesday, with a return hearing scheduled for the following week. The order aims to protect Infront's interests amid concerns that the defendant may dissipate assets or be insolvent.
The High Court wound up Jax Miller Unlimited, the company run by writer Ann O'Donnell (pen name Jax Miller), after it failed to pay a €83,000 tax demand from the Revenue Commissioners. The demand, issued in March, covered unpaid PAYE, USC, LPT, Corporation Tax and interest. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Caroline Costello, found the firm insolvent and unable to meet its debts. Mr Myles Kirby was appointed liquidator. The company's directors, Ann O'Donnell and her husband John O'Donnell, both from New Inn, Enfield, Co. Meath, had no assets or income in the last two years. Ann O'Donnell had received advance payments for a two‑book deal in 2014; the first book, published in 2015, sold moderately worldwide, while the second was rejected by the publisher and she was dropped by her agent in 2017. She is now in the US seeking publication, and her husband works at a petrol station.
In a High Court case concerning the sale of allegedly "clocked" second‑hand cars imported from Japan, the action against Mr Ali Babar, Mr Ali Asad and Cars Point Ltd was resolved and struck out. The plaintiffs, Stuart Kessie, John McCormack and Caroline Bermingham, claimed that more than 20 vehicles they purchased from the defendants had their odometers tampered with, reducing mileage from around 170,000 km to about 63,000 km, and that they were deceived into paying a higher price. They sought refunds and had approached Gardaí. Temporary freezing orders were obtained against Mr Babar and Mr Asad, but the defendants did not appear in court. Judge Caroline Costello agreed to strike out the proceedings and vacated the freezing orders, with no details of any settlement disclosed. The case was therefore concluded without a judgment on the alleged fraud.
John Paul Byrne, aged 32, was found in possession of €42,000 worth of cannabis, which he admitted to having for sale or supply. Garda Joseph McBride explained that Byrne was a back‑seat passenger in a vehicle stopped at a north Dublin checkpoint set up to address local feud issues. The officers detected a cannabis odor, searched the car, and discovered the drugs in a hold‑all bag in the rear. Byrne claimed he owed €15,000 for a drug debt and said he had little choice in moving the drugs because of real threats. He had no recent convictions, with his last offence in 2010, and his prior convictions were mainly traffic and public‑order related. The court described him as a "gillie," a low‑level participant in the drug trade. Sentencing was adjourned to 21 January. John Paul Byrne pleaded guilty.
The High Court was informed that protesters had vacated 41 Belvedere Place after MJH Property Management obtained an injunction compelling them to leave. MJH, represented by Stephen Hanaphy BL, claimed the building was taken over on 8 September by individuals linked to the "Take Back the City" campaign. The owners said the premises were unsafe for occupation and intended to develop the Georgian property into apartments. The court noted the protestors had complied with the order and the owners could seek to strike out the proceedings.
A dispute over a commercial property at 13‑15 Rockhill, Main Street Blackrock, Co. Dublin, has been admitted to the fast‑track Commercial Court list. Cheldon Property Finance Designated Activity Company and receiver Ken Tyrell seek to sell the premises, which is owned by Ms Deryn Mackay. The fund, represented by Rossa Fanning SC, alleges that Ms Mackay owes €2.5 million for loans advanced by PTSB between 2003 and 2007, which Cheldon acquired in 2015. The property was used as security for those loans. Ms Mackay claims that, after discussions with her advisor and Pepper Asset Finance DAC, she has a binding agreement that Cheldon must accept €800,000 to settle her debts and remove the mortgage. Cheldon denies any binding agreement and wants to sell the property to reduce her indebtedness.
In October 2018 the Commercial Court struck out a summary judgement application for €1.7 million against former AIB and Central Bank director Bernard Somers and his wife Marguerite Somers. The claim, brought by Launceston Property Finance DAC, arose from a €3.62 million loan made by Anglo Irish Bank in 2010 and secured by the Somers' home in Foxrock. After Anglo's collapse the loan was transferred to Irish Bank Resolution Corporation and later acquired by Launceston in 2014. Launceston alleged the couple had failed to repay the loan and that the home was used as security. The parties had been adjourned for talks, and on 15 October 2018 the parties agreed to resolve the matter. With the consent of both sides, Mr Justice Robert Haughton struck out the case, and no settlement details were disclosed in open court.
The High Court authorised the provisional liquidator of Coast Stores Ireland Ltd to sell part of the Irish subsidiary to Karen Millen Fashions Ltd. The sale agreement will preserve 50 of the 99 full‑time and part‑time positions in the Irish business. Coast Ireland operated five stand‑alone stores and ten concession outlets in Irish department stores. Karen Millen, which has acquired the entire UK Coast Group, will keep all Irish concession outlets and purchase all Irish stock. Declan McDonald of PWC was appointed liquidator; he argued that the sale best served creditors and the company. Karen Millen declined to acquire the five stand‑alone stores. The court, led by Justice Caroline Costello, approved the agreement. Coast Ireland's turnover fell from €7.1 m to €6 m in the year to February 2018, and the UK parent entered administration and was bought by Karen Millen.
In October 2018 a High Court hearing was held in Dublin where a bank‑appointed receiver, Declan Taite, sought vacant possession of 76 Pearse Street. Taite, who had been receiver since 2013, alleged that the property had been occupied by unknown persons since early September without lawful right. He claimed the occupants had changed the locks and moved in around 6 September, and that a blockade prevented the receiver's agents from entering. A banner reading "Pearse Street Occupation" was reportedly displayed outside. The receiver sought orders to stop trespassing and to recover possession. Justice Caroline Costello granted the receiver's lawyers permission to serve short notice to the occupants on an ex‑parte basis and adjourned the case to a date next week. The action is part of a series of High Court proceedings against occupants of vacant central Dublin properties used to highlight the homelessness crisis.
The High Court on 11 October 2018 appointed Declan McDonald of PWC as provisional liquidator for Coast Stores Ireland Ltd, a fashion and accessories chain employing 99 staff across five stores and ten concession stands. Coast, part of the UK‑based Coast group, cited difficulties linked to its parent's collapse of House of Fraser and challenging market conditions as reasons for seeking liquidation. The court noted that the UK parent had entered a sales process, accelerated in recent months, and that Karen Millen had purchased Coast in the UK and expressed interest in the Irish concession stands. The appointment was made at the request of Kelley Smith Bl, with the board deciding to wind up the company. The judge adjourned the matter to November, allowing the liquidator to manage asset sales and ensure an orderly winding‑up, aiming to protect employees, creditors and suppliers.
Peter Conlon, the managing director of the Dublin‑based charity‑fundraising platform Pembroke Dynamic Internet Services, is currently detained in a Swiss prison and intends to contest High Court orders that have frozen his assets, including bank accounts, valued at €3.8 million. The injunction was granted earlier this year after liquidator Myles Kirby, appointed to wind up the company over a €400,000 debt to Revenue, discovered that some €3.8 million donated through the platform had not reached the intended charities. Kirby alleges Conlon engaged in "very serious misconduct" by diverting company funds for personal use. Conlon, 63, has been formally served with the case documents while in the Swiss jail and has retained an Irish solicitor to represent him. The court has adjourned the case for several weeks, with a hearing scheduled for November, while the injunction remains in place pending the outcome of the application to keep it.
In a High Court hearing on 9 October 2018, professional golfer Kevin Beirth was ordered to give a sworn undertaking to cease presenting himself as a member or affiliate of the Professional Golfers Association (PGA). The PGA had previously sought to have Beirth imprisoned for contempt of court, alleging that he had breached earlier undertakings by continuing to portray himself as a PGA professional and offering lessons under that title. Beirth had been expelled from the PGA in 2012 after a disciplinary process and had previously settled a 2013 dispute with the association. The High Court, presided over by Ms Justice Caroline Costello, accepted Beirth's undertaking that he would not represent, be part of, affiliate with, or promote the PGA unless written agreement existed. The PGA's attachment and committal proceedings were therefore resolved. The case remains at the High Court stage, with no further sentencing or imprisonment imposed.
In October 2018, the High Court case in which Harcourt Developments sought to stop Crest Nicholson from threatening to wind up the Irish company over a £2 million debt was settled. Harcourt, which says it is not insolvent and employs more than 800 people, had brought an action against the Surrey‑based Crest Nicholson, alleging that the firm was "improperly" threatening liquidation and that the petition was an attempt to force Harcourt to sell development lands in the UK at a significant undervalue. Harcourt claimed Crest had an ulterior motive and that the petition was a tactic to compel the sale of its interest in the development. The parties had previously agreed to develop lands near Bristol into housing, but the relationship broke down in 2015 when Crest sought to terminate the Joint Landowners Agreement.
Friends of the Irish Environment CLG has obtained permission to bring a High Court challenge against An Bord Pleanála's decision to extend planning permission for a Liquid Natural Gas terminal on the Shannon Estuary. The NGO seeks to quash the five‑year extension granted on 13 July to Shannon LNG Ltd, which would allow the construction of four large tanks, jetties and associated works at Kilcolgan near Tarbet, north Co Kerry. The challenge argues that the planning authority failed to consider significant environmental effects, particularly on local wildlife such as Bottlenosed Dolphins in the Lower River Shannon Special Area of Conservation, and neglected the 2015 Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act and relevant EU Habitats Directive information. The NGO, represented by John Kenny Bl and solicitor Fred Logue, requests an order quashing the decision and declarations that the Board erred in law. Shannon LNG Ltd and Kerry County Council are notice parties.
The Irish Examiner has opposed former Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan's request to extend the time limit for a defamation action against the newspaper. O'Sullivan, who served as Commissioner from 2014 to 2017, claims she was defamed by an article that appeared on the front page of the Examiner on 4 October 2016. The article, which was prompted by allegations raised in the Dáil by Michael Martin and subsequently investigated by a Commission of Inquiry led by Justice Peter Charleton, reported on protected disclosures made by Garda Superintendent Dave Taylor and Sergeant Maurice McCabe about an alleged campaign to damage a whistleblower. O'Sullivan says the article harmed her reputation and that she was unable to bring proceedings until now, citing the toll on her and her family. The Examiner argues that it published the story in the public interest, that O'Sullivan was not named or identified as a senior Garda, and that it has a strong defence to the claims.
In a High Court hearing, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys delivered a written judgment in an application brought by Rebecca Carter, an 18-year-old student from Rectory Hall, Castlebridge, Wexford, against the State Examination Commission (SEC). The judge found that the SEC's error correction system was "manifestly not fit for purpose" and "highly unfair," causing "untold stress" to applicants. The case concerned Carter's Leaving Certificate points, which were wrongly computed, initially leaving her six points short of the requirement for Veterinary Medicine at UCD. Following a review, her Business Studies grade was increased from H2 to H1, correcting the total to qualify her for the course. The judge ruled that the SEC must rectify the error in totalling marks before UCD closed its 2018 admissions. Although Carter successfully secured her place and was awarded costs, the judge noted she lost the initial weeks of her course due to delays in the appeal process. The judgment criticized the lack of coordination among education agencies, stating the situation "cannot be repeated." The SEC had opposed the application, arguing it was self-serving, but the judge acknowledged the severe stress the matter caused Carter. The decision highlights systemic failures in the review process, despite the successful outcome for the applicant.
In a High Court case, Mr Justice Tony O'Connor referred the matter to the Law Society of Ireland after a bank‑appointed receiver obtained orders for vacant possession of a house at Kildawn Lower, Redshire Road, Murrintown, Co. Wexford. The orders were granted against David Lawlor, Charlee Somers and their two‑year‑old child, who had been living there since July, and the property's owner, Mr Peter Doyle. The judge was troubled by affidavits from Doyle and Somers that contained irrelevant legal points and described the couple as "vulnerable people" who had been "sold a pup". He found that Start Mortgages DAC and receiver John Coulston were entitled to injunctions, noting that the couple had no right to occupy the premises and were trespassers. The judge also noted that Doyle had consulted solicitor Charles Allen for advice, prompting the referral for investigation. The injunction gave the couple 14 days to vacate the property.
In a High Court hearing on 2 October 2018, MJH Property Management, owners of 41 Belvedere Place, Dublin 1, reported that protestors had not vacated the building despite a court‑issued injunction. The injunction, granted last month, required unknown persons to leave the premises immediately and cease unlawful trespass. The owners said the occupation began on 8 September when members of the "Take Back the City" campaign forcibly entered the vacant Georgian building, which they plan to develop into apartments. They argued the building is unsafe and unsuitable for the occupation, and that continued trespass would breach fire safety regulations and jeopardise insurance. No representation was made on behalf of the occupants at the hearing. The judge adjourned the matter for two weeks, noting the owners were taking steps to resolve the situation. The case follows similar High Court actions at other north inner‑city properties occupied by protestors.
The article advertises a full‑time Court Reporter position at CCC.Nuacht, one of Ireland's largest national court reporting agencies. It highlights the agency's long history of accurate reporting for national media such as RTE, the Irish Times and the Irish Independent, noting that its reporters have broken major stories including the public decision by child rape victim Fiona Doyle and the "garlic man" sentencing. The role requires the ability to understand complex legal cases and produce high‑quality reports under tight deadlines, often covering highly sensitive crimes. Applicants should have a proven track record in national press reporting, preferably with court‑reporting experience, and demonstrate personal initiative, good judgement, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. The salary is entry‑level, with a six‑month probationary period.
In a High Court ruling, Justice Úna Ní Raifeartaigh ordered the Irish Countrywoman's Association (ICA) to hold fresh elections for its national executive within two months, with results announced before 30 September. The judge found that the ICA had breached its constitution by failing to count ballots before its May AGM and by allowing the current executive to remain in a caretaker role. Ms Patricia Madden, a member and barrister, had claimed the organisation had violated its constitution and sought injunctions to prevent filling vacancies. The ICA, represented by Frank Beatty SC, acknowledged ballot problems and proposed new elections, but Ms Madden rejected those proposals. The judge confirmed that the current executive may stay in place until the new elections are completed, and that any constitutional changes are the ICA's responsibility, not the court's. The decision will be set out in a written judgment later.
In a High Court decision on 31 July 2018, Mr Justice David Barniville remitted a controversial planning application for 500 housing units in Raheny back to An Bord Pleanála for fresh consideration. The application, made by developer Marlet's subsidiary Crekav Trading, sought to build 104 houses and 432 apartments on land that had been used as six playing pitches by St Paul's College. The board had previously granted approval under a fast‑track process that bypassed the local authority, but the judge quashed that decision, citing an error in the board's approval. He ordered the matter to be remitted to the board, but only to the extent necessary to undo the invalid step, and left open the possibility for the applicants to raise other grounds in future proceedings.
The High Court has resolved a judicial review brought by Amnesty International Irish Section against the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO). The applicant challenged SIPO's November 2017 order requiring the return of a €137,000 donation from the Open Society Foundations, which SIPO had deemed prohibited under Section 23 A2 of the 1997 Electoral Act for political purposes. Amnesty denied the funds were used for political purposes, arguing the decision was procedurally flawed. In a settlement agreement read to Mr Justice Seamus Noonan, SIPO accepted that the process leading to its decision was procedurally flawed. SIPO consented to an order quashing its decision and confirmed it will close its investigation file regarding the grant. The Commission also acknowledged that Amnesty cooperated fully with inquiries and stated that the Open Society Foundations did not advise SIPO the donation was for political purposes. SIPO agreed to pay a contribution towards Amnesty's legal costs. The matter was resolved following discussions between the parties, with the court hearing that the decision was quashed as part of the settlement.
In a High Court case, environmental campaigner Peter Sweetman challenged Kerry County Council's decision to grant planning permission to Healy Rae Plant Hire Limited, a company owned by TD Danny Healy Rae, to raise a 1.8‑hectare field in Kilgarvan. Sweetman argues the council failed to obtain a waste licence, conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment or an Appropriate Assessment, and ignored the field's poor drainage, peaty soils and proximity to protected habitats. He claims the development contravenes the Kerry Development Plan and EU directives on habitat conservation. Sweetman seeks an order quashing the council's decision, declarations that the council acted outside its statutory remit, and that the state failed to transpose relevant EU directives. The court granted Sweetman permission to proceed ex‑parte, with the case scheduled for a November hearing. The council and Healy Rae Plant Hire are notice parties.
The Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE) obtained a High Court order to examine computers seized from the suicide‑counselling charity Console. The order followed agreements on how the investigation of electronic files would be conducted, reached with Console's founder Paul Kelly and his wife Patricia. The charity's liquidator supplied the ODCE with books and records. The Kellys expressed concerns that the search might involve private documents and those protected by professional privilege. The court agreed that the Kellys would provide a list of files they consider private by the end of August, and that such files would not be accessed or stored by the ODCE. Protocols were also agreed with the HSE to protect confidential patient information. The ODCE seeks to examine the electronic documents to investigate possible breaches of the Companies Act before the charity's liquidation in July 2016. No prosecution or charges have yet been brought. The matter was adjourned to October.
A High Court judge will decide next week whether to send back a controversial planning application for a 500‑unit housing development in Raheny to An Bord Pleanála for a new hearing. The developer, Crekav Trading of Marlet, had been granted permission to build 104 houses and 432 apartments on land that had been used as six playing pitches for St Paul's College. The application was made directly to the Board under a fast‑track process, bypassing the local authority. The Board admits it erred in granting the permission and seeks a remittance, but objectors—including Clonres CLG, environmental campaigner Peter Sweetman, Mr John Conway, and the Louth Environmental Group—argue the decision is fundamentally flawed and want it quashed. They also have brought proceedings against the State and the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. The judge, Mr Justice David Barniville, will rule on whether to remit the matter or simply quash the decision.
In a High Court hearing on 26 July 2018, Ms Justice Caroline Costello appointed Michael McAteer and Stephen Tennant of Grant Thornton as provisional liquidators for the Dublin‑based OpenHydro Group Ltd and its subsidiary Open Hydro Technologies Ltd. The court was satisfied that both companies were seriously insolvent, with debts of about €280 million, and that their French parent had withdrawn support after investing €260 million and facing further projected losses of €128 million up to 2026. OpenHydro, which employs over 100 people and develops tidal‑energy turbines, had incurred losses of roughly €160 million in 2017 and required €1 million a week to survive. Naval Energies, the largest shareholder and creditor, had acquired the group in 2013 and argued that the complex structure warranted court‑appointed liquidators to secure assets worth more than €80 million. The matter was adjourned to August.
In High Court proceedings, Ms Patricia Madden, a long‑time ICA member, has brought action against the Irish Country Women's Association over the conduct of its 2018 national executive elections. She alleges the ICA breached its constitution by failing to count ballots before the AGM in May, and that the election results announced at the AGM, including the national president, were invalid. Madden claims the ICA's procedures at the AGM, an earlier EGM, and a National Executive meeting were ultra vires and based on flawed legal advice. She seeks injunctions to prevent the ICA from filling any board vacancies until the dispute is resolved. The ICA, represented by Frank Beatty SC and Brendan Kirwan BL, acknowledges ballot problems and has proposed remedies, which Madden has rejected. After both parties' submissions, Justice Úna Ní Raifeartaigh reserved her judgment.
A man from County Wexford, John Kinsella, was released from custody at the Four Courts after agreeing to comply with High Court orders that prohibit him from trespassing on or approaching within 100 metres of lands in County Wexford. The orders, issued against him by the plaintiff John B. Dockrell Ltd, also restrain him from interfering with the plaintiff's quiet enjoyment of the property, blocking entrances, or impeding access. Kinsella, who was not represented at the hearing, was granted a two‑week adjournment of attachment and committal proceedings by Justice Caroline Costello after he gave a sworn undertaking to comply with the orders until the matter returns before the Court. The adjournment was set for 10 August, and Kinsella was released on the condition that he adhere to the orders until that date. The case remains pending before the Court.
The High Court has granted permission for an insolvency practitioner to seek the imprisonment of individuals alleged to be in contempt of court orders regarding trespassing at the N5 Business Park in Castlebar, Co Mayo. The application was brought on behalf of Ken Fennell, a receiver appointed by Promontoria (Arrow) Ltd, against unidentified persons believed to be members of the Travelling Community. Counsel for Mr Fennell alleged that despite previous court orders directing them to vacate the site, caravans remain on the property, causing damage and posing health and safety risks. The motion was prompted by concerns that the upcoming visit by Pope Francis to Knock Shrine might increase trespassing. Ms Justice Caroline Costello granted permission to serve short notice of attachment and committal proceedings on an ex-parte basis. The judge adjourned the matter to next week.
In July 2018, Heritage Bloodstock Ltd of Cahir, Co. Tipperary, withdrew a High Court action that had sought to allow its horse, Heritage Vittorio, to compete in the five‑year‑old competition at the Dublin Horse Show and to exclude Indigo VDL, owned by Mr. Ivor Broderick of Loughrea, Co. Galway. The company had argued that Indigo VDL was ineligible because it was not Irish‑bred and was not on the Department of Agriculture's approved breeding list for 2018, and that its participation would breach the RDS's rules. Heritage Bloodstock had obtained a short‑notice injunction and sought declarations that Indigo VDL did not meet the qualifying criteria. The case was adjourned for a costs hearing, and the action was formally withdrawn before the judge's decision on costs. The withdrawal left the status of the two horses at the Dublin Horse Show unresolved.