The Stardust management only complied with ten of 26 by-laws set down as terms of the nightclub's planning permission, an inquest jury has heard, with a lack of fire drills, lack of staff training, and the locking and obstructing of exits all showing non-compliance. Martin Davidson, a fire engineer with 29 years of experience, gave evidence in the Dublin District Coroner's Court during the inquest into the fire that killed 48 people in 1981. He stated that no revised drawings were submitted showing the use of carpet tiles on the walls instead of plastered walls. Doors were fitted with metal shutters that were fully down and locked, and temporary barriers were used, reducing exit width. Chains and padlocks were used on exit doors, which were not secured by automatic fastenings as required. Stardust manager Eamon Butterly confirmed that exits one, five and six were locked until between 11.30pm and midnight.
Patrick McDonagh, 52, is on trial accused of murdering his next-door neighbour, Peter McDonald, 73, with a machete on Whitechapel Road on July 25, 2020. McDonagh has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the State has not accepted. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Michael MacGrath, heard evidence from consultant psychiatrist Prof Patricia Casey. She testified that McDonagh, who has a long history of schizophrenia dating back to 2001, was suffering from an acute psychotic episode at the time of the alleged killing. Prof Casey stated she did not believe McDonagh was feigning his delusional beliefs, which included identifying himself as Moses and his sister as the Blessed Virgin. She noted that McDonagh told her he was turned away from Connolly Hospital the day before the incident due to Covid restrictions. Prof Casey opined that his mental disorder substantially diminished his responsibility under the Criminal Law (Insanity) Act 2006. The trial continues.
The Central Criminal Court trial of Thomas Lorigan, aged 34 and a nephew of the deceased, continues with a jury of five men and seven women deliberating for a third day. Lorigan, who has no fixed abode, pleaded not guilty to the murder of his 78‑year‑old uncle, John O'Neill, who lived alone on St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare. The prosecution presented evidence that Lorigan was seen on CCTV delivering kicks and stamping on O'Neill's head with steel‑capped boots, and that a pair of blood‑stained boots recovered from a house where Lorigan stayed the night before the body was found contained a mixed DNA profile including Lorigan's. Witness Walter Burke testified that Lorigan left the house on the night of 6 January, returned before midnight, and had a serious argument with his uncle.
The State applied to transfer the trial of Jason O'Connor, 45, accused of attempting to murder Charlie Cooper on 5 December 2016 at Parslickstown Green, Mulhuddart, to the Special Criminal Court. O'Connor also faces charges for possessing a 9mm firearm and 12 rounds of ammunition with intent to endanger life at the same place and time. At a non‑jury court hearing, State solicitor Michael O'Donovan secured a successful ex‑parte application, and Judge Caroline Biggs granted the transfer, adjourned the case to 7 February, and the trial will now be heard by a three‑judge Special Criminal Court.
An expert witness, Dr Will Hutchinson, testified at the Stardust inquest that a fire could have started in the hot press of the dispense bar without being noticed by staff. He explained that if the fire originated there, it would have been contained in the cabinet and channeled upwards like a chimney, traveling into the ceiling void without producing noise or smoke for several minutes. The sound of music in the club may have masked any sounds from the fire. Dr Hutchinson noted that the fire could have developed unnoticed due to the absence of heat, smoke, or noise. He also discussed the possibility of the fire spreading through the ceiling void, igniting combustible materials, and eventually reaching the West alcove. The expert confirmed that no evidence suggested the fire was started maliciously. The inquest continues.
In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, the jury's deliberations were halted for the day after one juror fell ill. The 12 jurors had begun deliberating at midday, spending an hour and five minutes before being sent home. The foreman notified Judge Paul McDermott that a juror was unwell and requested the rest of the day be excused. The jury confirmed they would return tomorrow at 11 am. The case concerns Thomas Lorigan, 34, who is accused of murdering his 78‑year‑old uncle, John O'Neill, at St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna, between 6 and 7 January 2022. Lorigan, known locally as 'Mossy', is the nephew of the deceased. Evidence presented includes blood‑stained boots recovered from a house in Gleann Bhreandain, a mixed DNA profile containing Lorigan's DNA, and CCTV footage allegedly showing Lorigan delivering kicks and stamping on O'Neill's head with steel‑capped boots. Thomas Lorigan pleaded not guilty.
During the Stardust inquest, expert witness Dr Will Hutchinson, a fire investigator with 23 years of experience, stated that an electrical fault in a hot press was a likely cause of the 1981 nightclub fire that killed 48 people. He explained that defects in the electrical installation, including overloading of circuits and a removed plastic cover on the hot press's upper immersion unit, could have produced excess heat and ignited the wiring. The presence of combustible carpet tiles on the walls, combined with a low ceiling, contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. Dr Hutchinson confirmed that PVC-coated seats could ignite from flaming droplets, and that the carpet tiles' ignition increased heat output, leading to the uncontrolled blaze. The inquest will continue tomorrow in the Rotunda Hospital's Pillar Room.
In the Central Criminal Court, Patrick McDonagh (52) is on trial for the murder of his neighbour Peter McDonald (73) on 25 July 2020. McDonagh pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the State has not accepted. He is charged with killing McDonald with a machete, resulting in head and neck wounds. The court heard that McDonagh, who has bipolar disorder, had not taken his medication for months before the attack, claiming it left him "defenceless against satan" and caused heart palpitations. Care worker Aaron Murtagh Casey testified that McDonagh was disorientated during a call with Gardaí, who later used a Taser to subdue him after a stand‑off. The jury is to decide whether McDonagh's mental state constitutes a diminished‑responsibility defence. The trial is before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath with a jury of nine men and three women.
In a case heard by the Workplace Relations Commission, a woman who had co‑founded a firm with her husband was made redundant in autumn 2022. The tribunal found that the breakdown of her marriage had a significant part to play in the decision to remove her as a director and signatory. The company argued that the marital issues were irrelevant and that the husband had no involvement in the redundancy process, but the adjudicator noted that the husband had been involved in previous redundancies and that the decision to dismiss had been made earlier than the formal redundancy process. The woman, an accounting technician with 20 years' experience, had a 50% shareholding and was left without income, forcing her to take supermarket shifts after the pandemic unemployment payment ceased. She had sought €72,000 in compensation but the WRC awarded her €25,000, allowing the company to deduct the statutory redundancy payment already made.
In a Lisdoonvarna murder trial, the prosecution argued that 34‑year‑old Thomas Lorigan, known as 'Mossy', killed his 78‑year‑old uncle John O'Neill by stamping on his head with steel‑capped boots and delivering calculated kicks. Evidence included blood‑stained boots and jeans found at Lorigan's residence, DNA matching O'Neill's profile, CCTV footage of a man in long pants entering the B&B, and testimony from Walter Burke that Lorigan had a heated argument with his uncle that night. The prosecution claimed the assault was vicious, with no resistance from O'Neill, and that Lorigan left the scene carrying something, possibly alcohol. Lorigan pleaded not guilty, and the defence contended the evidence was circumstantial, questioning the reliability of witness testimony and CCTV identification. The trial was set to continue on Monday.
During a stand‑off at a Dublin house, Detective Garda Michael Hughes sprinkled himself and armed officers with holy water after the accused, Patrick McDonagh, claimed he was speaking to God and accused the Garda of being the devil. McDonagh, 52, had a history of mental health issues and was surrounded by armed Gardaí and negotiators. He was later subdued and arrested. The Central Criminal Court heard that McDonagh had murdered his neighbour, 73‑year‑old Peter McDonald, on 25 July 2020, using a machete. Forensic evidence from blood stains on the victim's home matched McDonald's DNA, indicating a violent assault. McDonagh pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter; the State has not accepted the plea. The trial continues before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath with a jury of nine men and three women.
During the Dublin District Coroner's Court inquest into the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, expert witness Dr Will Hutchinson testified that no accelerant was found and there was no evidence the fire in the west alcove was caused by arson. He explained that the Gardaí investigation had focused on the alcove, where the fire was first seen, and that samples taken over three days revealed no arson‑related substances. Hutchinson noted that witnesses who reported seeing a fire outside the club were observing a separate blaze, likely in the roof space, and that the timing of calls to emergency services supported this. He also discussed the possibility of expanded polystyrene insulation (Polyzote) on heating ducts as a potential fuel source, but confirmed no evidence of deliberate ignition in the alcove. The inquest will resume next Monday.
In a Central Criminal Court murder trial, the accused Patrick McDonagh (52) is charged with the death of his neighbour Peter McDonald (73) on Whitechapel Road, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, on 25 July 2020. McDonagh is alleged to have swung a machete at Garda armed support units who had forced entry to his home before being tasered and restrained. McDonagh pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea the State has not accepted. The trial heard that McDonald was found face‑down on his driveway, surrounded by blood, with a deep laceration from under his left ear to the Adam's apple and a deep cut on his left forearm. The injuries were described as incompatible with life. The case is proceeding before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath and a jury of nine men and three women.
During the trial of Thomas Lorigan, accused of murdering his 78‑year‑old uncle John O'Neill, the court heard that Lorigan, who was arrested for assault causing serious harm, was questioned by Gardaí about blood on his clothing. In an inference interview, Lorigan was told that a failure to explain the presence of blood could lead a jury to draw an inference. When asked to account for blood on his black boots and blue jeans seized from Gleann Bhreandain, he replied "no comment." Forensic evidence showed the boots and jeans contained DNA from both Lorigan and O'Neill, and the jeans' lower leg matched O'Neill's profile. Lorigan was also asked about a box of alcoholic drinks seized from the uncle's house, to which he again made no comment. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury. Thomas Lorigan pleaded not guilty.
During the inquest into the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, expert witness Dr Will Hutchinson explained that the blaze would have been less likely to spread if carpet tiles had not been present on the walls. He noted that a low ceiling, foam on the seats, burning droplets, and the presence of carpet tiles all contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, which killed 48 people. Dr Hutchinson described how the fire may have originated in the west alcove or the hot press, and how heat from the low ceiling intensified the blaze. He also discussed the role of the hot press's immersion heater, the potential for electrical faults, and the impact of the ceiling's height on heat radiation. The inquest will continue tomorrow in the Pillar Room of the Rotunda Hospital.
A trial date has been set for the wife and brothers of Jozef Puska, who is currently serving a mandatory life sentence for the murder of Ashling Murphy in Tullamore, Co Offaly, on January 12, 2022. The wife of Jozef Puska, Lucia Istokova, and his brothers Marek Puska and Lubomir Puska are accused of failing to disclose information to gardaí between January 12, 2022, and January 27, 2022, at Tullamore Garda Station. Jozefina Grundzova and Viera Gaziova are accused of impeding the apprehension or prosecution of a person. The trial, which is expected to last up to four weeks, is scheduled for April 28, 2025, and will be heard together. Free legal aid for senior and junior counsel was granted to all five defendants, who were not required to attend the court. The matter was adjourned by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor to a case management list in June. Jozef Puska had pleaded not guilty to murdering Ms Murphy, but an unanimous jury found him guilty after just two hours of deliberation.
A Central Criminal Court jury will hear evidence that 52‑year‑old Patrick McDonagh of Whitechapel Road, Clonsilla, Dublin 15, is charged with murdering his 73‑year‑old neighbour Peter McDonald on 25 July 2020. McDonagh pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, a plea rejected by the DPP, so the trial proceeds. The State's counsel, Philipp Rahn SC, described the victim as a quiet pensioner who lived alone with cats, and said the killing involved a machete and knife, with multiple chopping and stabbing wounds to the head and neck. Witnesses reported McDonagh shouting threats, appearing drunk and mentally unstable, and that he was seen with a machete in his hand. Gardaí arrived at the scene early, found McDonald in a pool of blood, and seized the weapons. The case is being treated as murder, with the jury asked to consider whether McDonagh's mental state could give rise to a defence of diminished responsibility.
A forensic scientist presented a mixed DNA profile taken from inside a pair of boots heavily stained with the blood of widower John O'Neill, who was beaten to death in his own home. The DNA matched both O'Neill and the accused, Thomas Lorigan, a 34‑year‑old man known locally as 'Mossy' and the victim's nephew. The boots, recovered from a house where Lorigan stayed the night before the body was found, were described as steel‑capped Portwest boots in size 46 with a thick chevron‑shaped sole pattern. The scientist also matched footwear impressions on the victim's kitchen floor and on carpet, as well as partial impressions on a Dell laptop, to the boots. Blood found on the boots matched O'Neill's profile, and a mixed DNA profile from inside the boots contained both O'Neill's and Lorigan's DNA. Thomas Lorigan pleaded not guilty.
During the Stardust inquest, Dr Will Hutchinson, a fire investigator with 23 years of experience, presented expert testimony on possible origins of the nightclub fire. He suggested the fire could have started in a hot press, where electrical connections to immersion heaters may have had issues, or in the West alcove, where carpet tiles on the walls were a critical factor in rapid spread. He noted no evidence of resistive heating at a West alcove socket and no fuel in the ceiling void, making a fire there unlikely. The expert reviewed video recreations and expert reports, highlighting the role of carpet tiles in spontaneous ignition of seats and the rapid development of thick black smoke. He concluded that, due to severe damage and conflicting witness evidence, the exact area of origin could not be determined with certainty. The inquest will continue tomorrow.
During the Central Criminal Court hearing, Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster described the body of 78‑year‑old widower John O'Neill, found on his kitchen floor with a heavily blood‑stained, flattened face. She reported severe blunt‑force trauma, multiple fractures of facial bones, a traumatic brain injury, and extensive bruising and lacerations consistent with repeated kicks, blows and stamping. The deceased's heart was normal, and a toxicology report showed an alcohol level of 97 mg, equivalent to three pints. Dr Bolster concluded that respiratory compromise from inhalation of blood, caused by the severe facial and neck trauma, was the cause of death. The prosecution alleges that Thomas Lorigan, 34, the victim's nephew, repeatedly kicked O'Neill while wearing steel‑capped boots, leading to the fatal injuries. Lorigan has pleaded not guilty to the murder charge. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury.
Sean McGovern, injured in the 2016 Regency Hotel attack, is named in the Special Criminal Court as a senior leader of the Kinahan organised crime group. The court heard sworn testimony on the Kinahan cartel's command structure and activities, and evidence that 33 people linked to the organisation, who were "going to be involved in violence and murder," have been arrested by Gardaí. Detective Superintendent David Gallagher testified that the Kinahan group is driven by monetary gain, primarily through drug trafficking, and enforces control by violence, firearms and murder. He described the organisation as hierarchical, with a core in Dubai and cells in Europe and South America, noting a dramatic fall in violence since 2018. Gallagher confirmed McGovern's leadership role and that he is currently based in Dubai. The hearing also covered the murder of Noel Kirwan, mistakenly targeted by the Kinahans, and the prosecution of Michael Crotty for facilitating that murder. Michael Crotty pleaded not guilty.
In a 2024 inquest into the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, Dr Will Hutchinson, a fire investigator and forensic scientist, presented evidence to the jury about potential ignition points. He highlighted a severely damaged hotpress in the main bar near where the blaze was first noticed and an electrical outlet in the West alcove as areas that might have influenced the fire's origin. Hutchinson emphasized the importance of not focusing on a single answer, noting that burn patterns on exit doors suggested some were open early while others were closed or forced open. He also discussed the role of a curtain and carpet tiles that melted, contributing to the spread. The investigation will continue to examine these areas in detail, with the goal of proposing a seat of fire and testing hypotheses before drawing conclusions. The inquest proceeds the following day.
In a Special Criminal Court hearing, State Pathologist Dr Linda Mulligan presented evidence that Christopher 'Noel' Kirwan, an innocent man with no criminal involvement, was shot six times and died from multiple gunshot wounds to his head, chest, arm and abdomen. The pathologist identified eight separate injuries caused by six bullets, including a bullet that entered Kirwan's chest, damaging the aorta and the lower lobe of the left lung, leading to heart and lung failure. Additional wounds to the chest, abdomen and right arm caused blood loss. A bullet entered Kirwan's head below the right eye, fracturing his upper jaw and lodging beneath the lower jaw. Toxicology tests were negative for drugs or alcohol. Michael Crotty, 40, is on trial for allegedly facilitating Kirwan's murder by topping up a mobile phone for Sean McGovern; Crotty pleaded not guilty to the single charge.
A 52‑year‑old man, Patrick McDonagh, who admits killing a 77‑year‑old pensioner in west Dublin on 25 July 2020, will go on trial for murder. He pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter. The plea was rejected by the Director of Public Prosecutions, and Mr Justice Paul Burns assigned a jury of nine men and three women. The case may run until 7 February, with the trial set to begin Wednesday at 11 a.m. before Mr Justice Michael MacGrath. Witnesses include civilian observers and forensic psychiatrists Dr Mary Davoren and Professor Patricia Casey.
In a murder trial at the Central Criminal Court, Thomas Lorigan, 34, pleaded not guilty to the killing of his 79‑year‑old uncle, John O'Neill, who was found dead on the kitchen floor of his home on St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare. The prosecution alleged that Lorigan repeatedly kicked O'Neill to the head while wearing steel‑capped boots, causing severe injuries that left the body unrecognisable. Garda John Costello testified that he discovered a pair of blood‑stained boots and blue jeans behind an armchair in the victim's house on 7 January 2022. Sergeant Joe Fallon later seized the boots, noting a small splatter of blood under them, and collected a swab. Witnesses, including Walter Burke and several pub staff, described Lorigan's visits to the house and his alleged quarrels with O'Neill. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Paul McDermott, continues with a jury of five men and seven women.
In a January 2024 decision, the Workplace Relations Commission dismissed a series of discrimination claims lodged by Dr Pierce Parker, an American academic of Asian origin who had pursued a PhD at University College Dublin (UCD). Parker alleged that UCD had discriminated against him on the grounds of race, gender and civil status after he was disciplined for sleeping in campus buildings and after a post‑doctoral fellowship was not awarded to him. He claimed that the university's disciplinary process was racially motivated and that staff had "blindly" ignored his sleeping and cooking in the research institute from 2018 to 2021. The WRC found that Parker's complaints were made in bad faith, that he had a pattern of retaliating with allegations of discrimination, and that the university had acted fairly and transparently in the fellowship selection. Consequently, the WRC ruled the claims frivolous and dismissed them, noting that the allegations caused Parker undue stress and anxiety.
A Garda witness described to the Central Criminal Court jury the moment she discovered the body of a 79‑year‑old widower, John O'Neill, who had been severely beaten to the point of being unrecognisable. The body was found on the morning of 7 January 2024 at O'Neill's bed and breakfast on St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare. Garda Louise Keogh, on duty at 8.06 am, received a call about an altercation the previous night and, after failing to open the front door, entered the house through a broken window. She saw the victim lying on the ground with blood around his head, a broken vase beside him, and scattered cards including a PPS card. Paramedic Melissa Power confirmed the death at 9.15 am. The accused, Thomas Lorigan, 34, of no fixed abode, pleaded not guilty to the murder.
Joshua Daly, a construction worker, claims that Lynch Gilligan Plumbing & Heating Ltd treated him as a first‑year apprentice plumber without registering his apprenticeship, thereby paying him below the statutory rate and failing to provide required pension and holiday pay. He says the company paid him at the apprentice rate of 33.3% of €22.73 per hour, amounting to a loss of €5,108.53 over three months, and that his final payment was marked "Unite the Union" on his bank statement after he mentioned joining the union. Daly alleges the firm was "busted" and that he was dismissed on 28 May, but the company later clarified it was not dissolved. The Workplace Relations Commission is set to issue a decision in the coming weeks. The complaint was lodged under the Payment of Wages Act 1991.
An inquest jury heard that 48 people died in the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, many of whom were young couples who perished together. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane explained that the identification of victims was distressing, often relying on jewellery or clothing due to fire damage. Pathologists Dr Richard Shepherd, Dr Nat Cary and Dr Benjamin Swift reviewed post‑mortem evidence, concluding that most deaths were caused by rapid incapacitation from inhalation of fire fumes and heat. Specific cases mentioned include Helena Mangan (22) and her boyfriend John Stout (18), Julie McDonnell (20), Caroline McHugh (17), David Morton (19) with girlfriend Martina Keegan (16), Kathleen Muldoon (19) with Gerard McGrath (21), George O'Connor (17), Brendan O'Meara (23) who was removed alive but died from complications, Margaret Thornton (19) with Murtagh Kavanagh (27), and Paul Wade (17) who was identified later by DNA.
In a Workplace Relations Commission hearing, former doorman Ellison Silva dos Santos denied that he pushed a transgender woman down the stairs of Dublin's George bar during Pride month. He said the woman, who was heavily intoxicated, slapped him and then tried to escape, after which he grabbed her to prevent her falling. Silva dos Santos claimed he was fired two days later, but the venue's general manager denied dismissal, stating Silva dos Santos had been offered work at other group venues and only failed to attend. The manager also said Silva dos Santos was warned for not attending scheduled shifts and was ultimately terminated for abandonment of employment. Silva dos Santos maintains he was not dismissed and that the warning letter was issued without hearing his side. The case remains under review by the WRC.
A 40‑year‑old man with no prior convictions, Michael Crotty, is on trial before the Special Criminal Court for allegedly topping up a prepaid mobile phone that was used in the murder of Christopher 'Noel' Kirwan, who was mistakenly linked to the Regency Hotel shooting. Crotty pleaded not guilty. The prosecution alleges he purchased a top‑up for the third phone at a Spar shop in Naas on 21 December 2016, the day before Kirwan's murder. They claim he knew or was reckless about the phone's potential use in a serious crime. Crotty was arrested in March 2021 and questioned by Gardaí. He is charged under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act for participating or contributing to the murder of Kirwan. The court will consider a media application regarding a party named only as AB in evidence. The trial is ongoing.
In a murder trial, the State presented evidence that 79‑year‑old widower John O'Neill was killed by his nephew Thomas Lorigan, 34, who allegedly repeatedly kicked him to the head with steel‑capped boots. The prosecution described O'Neill as a fit, healthy man who had lived alone after his wife's death and had recently run a bed and breakfast. On the night of 6 January 2022, O'Neill returned home after drinking and was attacked by Lorigan, who was described as "Mossy" and living in a derelict house. Witness Walter Burke testified that Lorigan left his house after an argument with O'Neill, and emergency services found O'Neill dead in the kitchen the next morning. The State's pathologist reported severe blunt‑force trauma to O'Neill's face, consistent with multiple kicks. CCTV footage showed a man assaulting another outside the B&B, with the attacker later seen heading toward Burke's house. Thomas Lorigan pleaded not guilty.
The inquest into the 1981 Stardust fire, which claimed 48 lives, focused on the tragic loss of three McDermott siblings—Marcella (16), George (18) and William (22). The jury heard that all three died from rapid incapacitation due to inhalation of fire fumes and heat. Marcella and George were identified by dental records and clothing, with Marcella's coffin carried by friends in Ska attire as a tribute. William was identified by dental records and had the highest carboxyhemoglobin level (61%) among victims, yet his death was also attributed to inhalation of fumes. The proceedings highlighted the profound impact on the McDermott family, particularly mother Bridget, and underscored the difficulty of fully grasping the scale and enormity of the tragedy. The inquest was set to continue the following day.
In a Workplace Relations Commission hearing, Eric Rhodes, chief executive of ERS Genomics Ltd, denied that he asked former finance manager Tracey McGann for extra wine because she was a woman. Rhodes said he would have made the same request to a male employee if the company card had been in their possession. McGann, who claims she was treated like a waitress, alleges she was dismissed constructively after raising a grievance and seeking a part‑time role and assistant. She says the company replaced her and that Rhodes told her she would be doing "shit" work if she stayed. Rhodes admitted he had told her she could look for another job. McGann resigned on 16 January 2023, claiming constructive dismissal after a formal grievance was not addressed. The WRC has ordered the company to produce board minutes and an un‑redacted email regarding her replacement. The case is set for cross‑examination tomorrow.
Thomas Lorigan, 34, of no fixed abode, is set to stand trial for the murder of 79‑year‑old John O'Neill in Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare, between 6 and 7 January 2022. He pleaded not guilty. The prosecution is led by senior counsel Eilis Brennan; the defence is headed by Michael Bowman SC. Judge Paul McDermott noted Lorigan's former residence in Lucan, Dublin, and that O'Neill ran a bed and breakfast on St Brendan's Road until 2021. The jury, five men and seven women, will hear the case, which is expected to last up to four weeks.
An inquest heard that a dental plate might have been key to identifying the body of Murtagh "Murty" Kavanagh, whose remains were unknown for over 25 years. The jury reviewed a 1981 post‑mortem report that did not mention a dental plate being removed. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane noted that the pathologist's report made no reference to a dental plate, and that expert witnesses could not confirm its presence. Family counsel Bernard Condon SC raised questions about the existence of a dental plate, citing a sister's statement that Murty had a partial plate from a sporting incident. Dr Richard Shepherd suggested that if records of the plate existed, they could aid identification, but no definitive evidence was presented. The inquest also discussed the identification of other Stardust victims through jewellery and dental records, but the case of Murty Kavanagh remains unresolved. The hearing will continue next Tuesday.
During the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire, Dr Richard Shepherd testified that any delay in escaping the toxic, hot environment would have increased the likelihood of death. He explained that rapid incapacitation from inhaling fire fumes and heat was the cause of death for the 48 victims. Shepherd cited specific cases: Jacqueline Croker, 18, who fell after running across a seat aisle; Liam Dunne, 18, who died 25 days later from bronchial pneumonia and lung abscesses; Michael Farrell, 26, with a high hydrogen cyanide reading; Michael French, 18, identified in 2007 with significant burns and a 24% carbon monoxide level; David Flood, 18, with a 56% carbon monoxide level; Thelma Frazer, 20, with a 25% carbon monoxide level; Josephine Glen, 16, who survived five days after being found near exit five; Brian Hobbs, 21, with 39% carbon monoxide; Eugene Hogan, 24, who was last seen on the dance floor before lights went out; Murtagh Kavanagh, 27, with a 48% carbon monoxide.
An inquest jury in Dublin has begun hearing evidence on the deaths of the 48 victims of the 1981 Stardust nightclub fire. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane explained that the jury's role is to determine each victim's date, place and cause of death. Pathologists Dr Richard Shepherd, Dr Nat Carey and Dr Benjamin Swift presented post‑mortem, toxicology and photographic evidence. They confirmed that high levels of carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide and heat were present in many victims, and that inhalation of fire fumes and heat caused rapid incapacitation and death. The evidence was presented alphabetically, starting with 17‑year‑old Michael Barrett, who had 50% carbon monoxide in his blood, and included other victims such as 17‑year‑old Richard Bennett, 18‑year‑old Carol Bissett, 23‑year‑old Jimmy Buckley, 19‑year‑old Paula Byrne, 17‑year‑old Caroline Carey and 21‑year‑old John Colgan.
An expert witness has stated that the lack of proper documentation of body recovery following the Stardust fire prevents any meaningful analysis of the fire's effects on victims. Dr Richard Shepherd, a forensic pathologist, testified that the mortuary facilities were overwhelmed and inadequate, with victims placed on the floor beneath mortuary tables. He emphasized that immovable exit doors during emergencies could cause significant issues, as people tend to congregate near them. The inquest has moved into a new phase, with expert pathological witnesses providing evidence on the cause of death for the 48 victims. Dr Shepherd noted that the management of mass fatalities has evolved significantly since 1981, with modern practices including unique identifiers for each body. He highlighted that the lack of documentation made it impossible to analyze the effects of the fire and fumes on individuals.
In a Circuit Court trial, Gerard O'Brien, a former secondary school teacher and then Circuit Court judge, was found guilty of one count of attempted rape and eight counts of sexual assault against six male complainants, some of whom were his students. The alleged offences took place between March 1991 and November 1997 in Leinster, when O'Brien was in his 30s and the complainants were aged 17 to 24. Evidence included accounts of O'Brien skipping classes to drink with students, inviting them to his home, and engaging in non‑consensual sexual acts while they were asleep or under the influence of alcohol. The jury deliberated for seven hours and thirty‑four minutes before delivering the verdicts. O'Brien, who has a rare birth defect, was remanded on continuing bail until sentencing on 4 March 2023. The judge thanked the jurors and noted O'Brien would be automatically added to the sex offenders register. Gerard O'Brien pleaded not guilty.
The jury in the trial of a 59‑year‑old teacher accused of sexually assaulting six young men, including students, has retired for the evening after a day of deliberation. The teacher, who was in his 30s at the time of the alleged offences, pleaded not guilty to one count of attempted anal rape and eight counts of sexual assault. The State alleges that five complainants were assaulted in shared beds and one in a pub toilet, while the accused denies wrongdoing. The jury will resume tomorrow.
In a Central Criminal Court trial, a 59‑year‑old teacher faces one count of attempted anal rape and eight counts of sexual assault involving six complainants aged 17 to 24 between March 1991 and November 1997 in County Dublin. Defence counsel Michael O'Higgins SC urged the jury to consider the historical context of gay discrimination in 1990s Ireland, arguing that the accused's alleged self‑preservation and fear of repercussions may explain his alleged false statements. He highlighted inconsistencies in the complainants' accounts and suggested the accused's emotional immaturity and the age disparity between him and the victims. Prosecutor Anne‑Marie Lawlor SC countered, stressing the need to disregard sympathy, noting the implausibility of multiple similar allegations, and emphasising the lack of consent in five incidents where victims were asleep. The judge, Mr Justice Alexander Owens, began his charge, with the trial expected to continue tomorrow. The unnamed 59-year-old pleaded not guilty.
The 59‑year‑old teacher, accused of attempted rape and eight counts of sexual assault against six students aged 17‑24 between 1991 and 1997, pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court. He testified that he initially lied to Gardaí during voluntary interviews, denying any sexual contact with the complainants out of panic and shame. He later provided statements clarifying his position, admitting he had lied. During cross‑examination he denied grooming or pressuring the students, claimed some were mistaken or lying, and described his actions as "mutual" or "happened" without intent to assault. He denied attempting anal sex and said he stopped when a student did not want it. The trial, presided over by Mr Justice Alexander Owens, continues with the jury hearing his direct evidence and the prosecution's case.
The jury in the multi‑million euro theft trial of former solicitor Michael Lynn retired after a day of deliberation, having spent three hours and 45 minutes in the courtroom. Judge Martin Nolan sent them home, and they will resume consideration of their verdicts tomorrow. Lynn, 55, of Millbrook Court, Redcross, Co Wicklow, faces 21 counts of theft for allegedly stealing about €27 million from seven financial institutions between 23 October 2006 and 20 April 2007. He has pleaded not guilty. The trial continues.
The 59‑year‑old teacher, accused of sexual assault, pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court to one count of attempted anal rape and eight counts of sexual assault involving six complainants aged 17‑24 between 1991 and 1997. In his testimony, he described a 1997 incident where an 18‑year‑old student stayed at his house and slept in his bed. He claimed the student entered the bed because the house was cold, that he left after the student was dressed, and that he later returned to sleep. He called the student's presence a "major mistake" and denied any sexual contact. He also addressed allegations from other complainants, stating he had no recollection of the incidents and denied sexual interaction, though he later admitted performing oral sex in some cases. The trial is ongoing before Mr Justice Alexander Owens and a jury.
The jury in the multi‑million euro theft trial of former solicitor Michael Lynn is ready to begin deliberations after Judge Martin Nolan delivered his charge on day 33. Judge Nolan instructed jurors to set aside prejudice and remain dispassionate, noting that most people dislike banks and that reckless behaviour had harmed the state. Lynn, 55, is accused of stealing about €27 million from seven financial institutions between 2006 and 2007, including Bank of Ireland, National Irish Bank, Irish Life and Permanent, Ulster Bank, ACC Bank, Bank of Scotland Ireland and Irish Nationwide Building Society. He pleaded not guilty to 21 counts of theft. The prosecution alleges Lynn obtained multiple mortgages on the same properties without banks knowing other lenders were involved, while the defence claims he had "off‑the‑books" agreements with all banks to use the loan money for overseas property developments, and that the banks were aware of this purpose.
A woman accused of murdering her former housemate became visibly distressed when a jury at the Central Criminal Court failed to reach a verdict following a month-long trial. The jury of twelve spent seven hours and 33 minutes deliberating before informing Mr Justice Paul McDermott that unanimity was impossible. The judge had indicated he would accept a majority verdict of at least ten jurors before they returned unable to agree. Nicola Brennan, 33, of no fixed abode, had denied murdering Juris Viktorovs at Shillelagh, Ballyconnell, County Cavan, on 10 February 2022. The prosecution case centred on eye-witness testimony and forensic evidence. The defence challenged the consistency and reliability of the key witness account and questioned whether guilt had been established beyond reasonable doubt. Mr Justice McDermott adjourned the matter until 24 January 2024, when a date for retrial will be set. The jurors were discharged and exempted from further service for ten years. Nicola Brennan pleaded not guilty.
In a Dublin Circuit Criminal Court hearing on 15 December 2023, former solicitor Michael Lynn, aged 55, faced 21 counts of theft for allegedly siphoning about €27 million from seven banks between October 2006 and April 2007. Prosecutor Karl Finnegan SC portrayed Lynn as a "greedy risk‑taker" who used multiple mortgages on the same properties, claiming the banks were unaware of other lenders. Lynn testified that he had "off‑the‑books" agreements and a secret deal with former Irish Nationwide chief Michael Fingleton to use Irish Nationwide funds for overseas property development. Finnegan argued that the alleged arrangements were "implausible" and that the banks had no knowledge of any conspiracy. Defence counsel Paul Comiskey O'Keeffe BL countered that Lynn's "profit‑share" agreement with Fingleton and the banks' awareness of his borrowing meant no deception had occurred, and that the prosecution's case relied on alleged "undertaking‑only" mortgages that the banks had never formally documented. Michael Lynn pleaded not guilty.
The jury at the Central Criminal Court continues deliberating in the trial of a woman charged with murdering her former lover. Nicola Brennan, aged 33, denies the murder of Juris Viktorovs, a 36-year-old Latvian national, at Ballyconnell, County Cavan, on 10 February 2022. The jury of eight men and four women has spent five hours and ten minutes in deliberation across two days, beginning Thursday afternoon. They are scheduled to resume Monday morning at 10am. The prosecution's case rests primarily on eyewitness testimony and forensic evidence, while the defence has challenged the reliability of the witness account and urged the jury to consider inconsistencies in the evidence presented. Mr Justice Paul McDermott has directed the jury that the prosecution must prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, and that murder requires proof of both the infliction of the fatal wound and intent to kill or cause serious harm. Nicola Brennan pleaded not guilty.
In a Central Criminal Court hearing, a 59‑year‑old man pleaded not guilty to one count of attempted anal rape and eight counts of sexual assault involving six complainants aged 17 to 24 between March 1991 and November 1997 in County Dublin. A former girlfriend of the fourth complainant testified that the accused, a former teacher, had told her in 1998 that he had been abused by the accused, describing the alleged incident as "touching and oral sex." A 45‑year‑old complainant recounted that he and the accused had gone to a pub, drank heavily, and that the accused performed oral sex on him after the accused had pulled down his boxer shorts. A second witness described a similar incident in late 1995, where the accused performed oral sex on him while he slept on the floor. A third witness denied any sexual intimacy with the accused.