The trial of Stephen O'Sullivan, a Limerick car dealer accused of giving €20,000 to a detective garda in exchange for confidential information about an investigation into his business, collapsed. O'Sullivan had pleaded not guilty to the charge of corruption. The defence requested to call a new witness whose evidence was deemed highly relevant. Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin ruled that the jury should be discharged, as the evidence could not be considered without the new witness. The court heard that O'Sullivan had provided a covert audio recording of a conversation where he gave the detective the money and asked about ongoing investigations. O'Sullivan also alleged that senior gardai were involved in extorting money from him. The case was adjourned for further proceedings, with the judge expressing the need to investigate the matter thoroughly.
A US national has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to murdering his 66-year-old father at the five-star Ballyfin Demesne hotel in Co Laois over a year ago. Henry McGowan (31), with an address in Brooklyn, New York, is charged with the murder of John McGowan (66) at Ballyfin Demesne on November 12, 2024. Mr McGowan was arraigned before the Central Criminal Court on the single charge of murder and pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. Mr Justice Sean Gillane informed the jury that the case will involve mental health issues and asked potential jurors to be available until Friday. The prosecution is led by Brendan Grehan SC, while the defence team includes Michael Bowman SC and Olan Callanan BL. A jury of six men and six women was sworn in, and the trial is set to begin tomorrow before Mr Justice Paul McDermott, expected to last three days.
A school bus driver who was terminated after complaints about inappropriate talk at work and alleged breaches of child safeguarding procedures has failed in a claim for anti-trans discrimination. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) upheld the decision of a large bus and coach company to end its contract with the driver, dismissing a complaint of discrimination in breach of the Employment Equality Act 1998 on gender grounds. The tribunal heard that the driver, who was born male and had begun transitioning to a female identity before taking up the job, ceased gender-affirming treatments and started de-transitioning in the summer of 2024. He preferred to be addressed with male pronouns. The driver claimed that a special needs assistant questioned him about personal details, and he suspected the conversations were recorded. He was later informed of complaints about inappropriate language but was not given details until after he requested them. The company's legal submissions stated that the complaints involved explicit details of sexual abuse, sexual intimacy, and other inappropriate topics.
A Canadian tourist, Neno Dolmajian, was brutally beaten to death on a Dublin street by a Romanian national, Ionut Danca, who was described by the victim's sister as having 'treated my brother's head like a football'. The victim's sister, Maral Dolmajian, spoke at the Central Criminal Court about her brother's character, describing him as a 'good person, kind, funny, thoughtful and a joy to be around'. Danca pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of Dolmajian, who was assaulted on June 23, 2024, and died nine days later. The court heard that Danca delivered a 'running kick straight to the face' of the deceased. Danca's co-accused, Madalin Ghiuzan, pleaded guilty to assaulting Dolmajian. The court will deliver a sentence on February 17. Danca's defence argued that he was initially trying to act as a peacemaker and that he has no previous convictions. The victim's family asked for a sentence that reflects the violence suffered and acknowledges their loss.
A jury has found that Detective Superintendent Rory Sheriff used reasonable force when striking a former Garda, John Bowe, with a baton during an 'extreme' high-speed car chase in rural Wexford in 2014. The civil trial jury agreed that Sheriff's actions were proportionate and justified following what he described as the most 'extreme and dangerous driving' he had ever witnessed. Bowe was arrested after a 20-minute chase that hit speeds in excess of 140kph. Sheriff testified that Bowe turned back with a 'metallic object' in his hand and lunged at him, prompting him to strike Bowe over the head with a baton. Bowe claimed he sustained injuries and was diagnosed with 'functional neurological disorder', but the claim was denied. Sheriff's legal team argued that it was 'miraculous' that no one was killed during the chase. The court awarded costs to Sheriff's legal team for both trials, pending any appeal.
A jury is deliberating in the trial of Stephen O'Sullivan, a Limerick car dealer accused of giving €20,000 to a garda detective in exchange for information about a Criminal Assets Bureau investigation into his business. O'Sullivan has pleaded not guilty to the charge of corruption. The trial has reached its final stages, with both prosecution and defense having made closing speeches. Surveillance footage showed O'Sullivan giving the money to Detective Garda David Bourke. O'Sullivan also claimed that senior gardai were involved in extorting money from him. Chief Superintendent Michael McNulty testified that warrants were sought for phone records and that a cash safe was found during searches. The jury has gone home to deliberate and will resume on Monday.
A Dublin man died from a stab wound to the neck less than two months before his partner gave birth to their child, the Central Criminal Court heard. Natanya Comerford testified that the deceased, Michael Ryan, had lost his mother to cancer six weeks before his death. She stated that Mr Ryan was taking a prescribed dose of Zopiclone to help him sleep and that the €4,000 found in his gym bag was from a loan for home improvements. Ms Comerford said she had never heard of Mr Ryan selling sleeping tablets. Joseph Lawlor, who denies murdering Mr Ryan, was questioned about the money in the gym bag, to which she replied that Mr Ryan was an 'eejit'. The trial heard that Mr Ryan and Mr Lawlor were drinking together and had a physical altercation. Mr Ryan was arrested for drink driving but was later released. He returned to Mr Lawlor's home where the fatal encounter occurred. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.
A former garda, John Bowe, has sought damages from a civil court jury after being struck on the head with a baton by Det Supt Rory Sheriff during a high-speed chase in Wexford in 2014. Bowe was arrested following the incident and later convicted of dangerous driving. He claims that the use of force by Sheriff was excessive and that he suffered injuries leading to a diagnosis of functional neurological disorder. His legal representative, Mark Harty SC, argued that Bowe was being unfairly portrayed as a liar and that the defence was attempting to gaslight the jury. On the other hand, Det Supt Sheriff's legal team, led by Richard Lyons SC, defended the use of force, stating that Bowe's actions were extremely dangerous and that no one was harmed due to the detective's intervention. The court is considering whether Sheriff used reasonable force during the arrest. If not, the jury must determine the award of damages and potential loss of earnings for Bowe.
A whistleblower claim by Detective Superintendent Brian O'Reilly is being heard in private at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The case, which involves allegations of penalisation under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014, was set for a hearing at the WRC. The State applied for the hearing to be held in private, and the media was excluded from the room. Adjudication officer Davnet O'Driscoll confirmed the motion was granted. The case had previously been outlined in a preliminary hearing in November. In addition to the WRC complaint, Supt O'Reilly had sought an injunction in the Circuit Court regarding his sick pay classification. His application for interim relief was denied by Judge John O'Connor in November 2025. Supt O'Reilly alleged he was subjected to oppressive management, had firearms training withheld, and was denied professional development and acting-up allowances. He also claimed he was undermined and ostracised at work. The State's legal team highlighted a duplication of proceedings, while Supt O'Reilly's solicitors are considering challenging the judge's decision. The case was adjourned for new legal papers.
A Dublin father, Michael Ryan (51), died from a single stab wound to the neck that severed a branch of the carotid artery and the jugular vein, according to evidence presented at the Central Criminal Court. Joseph Lawlor (39), of Hampton Wood Road in Finglas, Dublin 11, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mr Ryan, who was killed in a carpark near the accused's home on June 20, 2024. The trial heard that Mr Lawlor and Mr Ryan had been drinking together throughout the day and had a first physical altercation at 8.30pm. A second altercation occurred just after 9.30pm, leading to Mr Ryan being arrested for drink driving. After being released, he returned to Mr Lawlor's home where the fatal encounter took place. An audio recording captured Mr Ryan moments after being stabbed, saying: "You fucking c**t you, you dirtbird, Joey. You stabbed me in the artery, you f**king eejit." State pathologist Dr Yvonne McCartney testified that Mr Ryan had 57 scratches and bruises on his head, arms, legs, and torso.
The HSE has admitted negligence and a breach of duty of care in the death of John Tuohy, who died after medics failed to perform a CT scan that could have saved his life. Tuohy fell at home and suffered a head injury, but the hospital did not conduct a CT scan as it was deemed not to be within NICE guidelines. He was discharged but later fell ill and was taken back to the hospital, where a CT scan revealed a large subdural haemorrhage. Tuohy died two days later. The HSE issued an apology, acknowledging that a CT scan should have been completed and that the failure to do so led to his death. The court ordered the family to receive €35,000 and their costs in the proceedings. The family expressed profound stress and anguish over the loss of their loved one and the substandard care provided.
A Dublin man, Joseph Lawlor, is on trial for the murder of his friend, Michael Ryan, who was fatally stabbed in the neck. The trial heard that hours before the stabbing, Ryan told his friend, 'If you are going to stab me, stab me now.' The two men had been drinking together and had a series of altercations. An audio recording captured Lawlor calling Ryan a 'snitch' and a 'supergrass,' with Ryan responding that he had saved Lawlor's life. The recording also included Lawlor threatening to stab Ryan with his own knife. A bloodstained knife was found in Lawlor's home, and it was presented as the murder weapon. The prosecution argued that Lawlor's actions were premeditated, while the defence suggested that neither man had a knife during the immediate altercation. The trial continues with the jury considering the evidence presented. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.
A man who claims he was extorted into giving a detective garda €20,000 in exchange for a tip-off about a raid on his car dealership told officers that he did not inform the Garda ombudsman. Stephen O'Sullivan (43) is accused of giving or agreeing to give to Detective Garda David Bourke a monetary gain as an inducement to reveal confidential information concerning an investigation being carried out by (CAB) in relation to Stephen O'Sullivan, trading as Stephen Bawn Motors. Mr O'Sullivan, of Farrehy, Broadford, Co Limerick, is a director of the business and has pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to a single count of corruption at Bruree, Co Limerick on December 22, 2018. Mr O'Sullivan was arrested on January 23, 2019, by the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NCBI). The court has already heard an audio recording of Stephen O'Sullivan giving €20,000 to Detective Garda David Bourke.
A murder accused, Luke Donnelly, attempted to portray himself as a victim by claiming he was in fear for his life when he killed his allegedly abusive mother, but a prosecution barrister argued that the jury's verdict should 'sting like a bee'. Garret Baker SC, representing the Director of Public Prosecutions, stated that Donnelly had crushed his mother's skull 'like he would a common insect' and that she posed no real threat. Donnelly, who pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, claimed he was 'groomed' into a life of drugs and violence by his mother. He told the jury he 'snapped' and lost control after his mother threatened to kill him. Under cross-examination, Donnelly admitted to taking a cocktail of drugs before the incident. In his closing speech, Baker criticized Donnelly's defense, calling it 'contrived' and 'manufactured', and argued that the evidence pointed to an 'unambiguous murder'. He emphasized that the victim, a 62-year-old grandmother, had no chance against the accused.
A Limerick car dealer on trial for alleged corruption has claimed that senior gardai were involved in extorting money from him, a trial has heard. Stephen O'Sullivan (43) is accused of giving or agreeing to give Detective Garda David Bourke a monetary gain as an inducement to reveal confidential information concerning an investigation by the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) into his business. He has pleaded not guilty to the single count of corruption at Bruree, Co Limerick, on December 22, 2018. During the trial, David Gilmore, a former detective sergeant, testified that he arrested O'Sullivan in January 2019. O'Sullivan claimed he was being set up and that gardai were trying to extort €120,000 from him. He alleged that Detective Garda Bourke and a superintendent were involved in the CAB investigation and could influence its outcome. O'Sullivan said he felt under extreme pressure and feared reprisals if he made a formal complaint. He also claimed that gardai followed and harassed him, and that the superintendent appeared at his regular eateries.
A woman who was allegedly sexually abused by seven of her family members has been told by defence counsel that her allegations against one brother are 'hard to believe' because they are not true. Karl Finnegan SC, defending Accused C, cross-examined the complainant, who is deaf, and suggested that she had told different stories to gardai and the jury. The woman, who is giving evidence via video-link and through interpreters, has told gardai that she was raped by Accused C when she was seven years old. Defence counsel argued that this was not possible as Accused C would have been four at the time. The trial continues with seven men on trial for a combined total of 103 charges, including sexual abuse against the complainant and two of her younger sisters. The court has heard that the complainant has challenges communicating timelines and that the trial is being conducted with the assistance of interpreters and symbols. The unnamed 55-year-old pleaded not guilty.
An amateur kickboxer who admits to killing but denies murdering his mother has testified at his trial, claiming he was 'groomed' into a life of drugs and violence by his abusive mother. Luke Donnelly told the Central Criminal Court that he was in fear for his life and 'lost all control' when he stomped on his mother's head after she hit and threatened to kill him. He admitted to using 'deplorable violence' to end his mother's life and had taken a cocktail of drugs before the incident. Donnelly, who has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, described a history of abuse and violence in his home. He said his mother had a relationship with a drug dealer and that he was put 'out on the street' at 14. The trial continues with the jury considering evidence, including CCTV footage and the accused's claim that he was 'Jesus Christ' and that his mother had threatened to kill him.
The corruption trial of Stephen O'Sullivan, a Limerick car dealer, has heard covert recordings of conversations between O'Sullivan and Detective Garda David Bourke. O'Sullivan is accused of giving Bourke €20,000 in exchange for information about an ongoing investigation by the Criminal Assets Bureau into Bawn Motors. The trial revealed that the investigation, codenamed 'Operation Glacier,' was highly sensitive and confidential. Audio surveillance recorded in December 2018 showed O'Sullivan and Bourke discussing the investigation, with Bourke warning O'Sullivan that authorities were planning searches. Bourke also mentioned that the investigation was still ongoing and that there were concerns about a garda leaking information. The court heard that Bourke was not part of the investigation and that the two business partners had supplied cars to the company. The trial continues with further evidence being presented to the jury. Stephen O'Sullivan pleaded not guilty.
A murder trial in Dublin has heard that a father, Michael 'Chino' Ryan, was fatally stabbed in the neck by his friend Joseph Lawlor during a physical altercation following a day of drinking. The jury viewed CCTV footage of the incident, which occurred in a carpark near Lawlor's home on June 20, 2024. Ryan, who had previously been arrested for drink driving, returned to Lawlor's home after being released from custody. In the audio recording, Ryan can be heard screaming at Lawlor, calling him a 'dirtbird' and accusing him of stabbing him in the artery. Lawlor has pleaded not guilty to the murder. Detective Garda Ronan Kelly testified that he reviewed the CCTV footage and audio recordings multiple times. The trial continues before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and a jury.
A jury will hear evidence that a secret recording captured a Limerick businessman accused of corruption giving a detective garda €20,000 in exchange for information relating to a Criminal Assets Bureau investigation. Stephen O'Sullivan, 43, has pleaded not guilty to one count of corruption at Bruree, Co Limerick, on December 22, 2018. The prosecution alleges that O'Sullivan met with Detective Garda David Bourke in a Citroen Berlingo van and made the payment. The court heard that Bourke, who was transferred to Limerick in 1998, was involved in the CAB investigation called 'Operation Glacier'. The jury was told that O'Sullivan met with Gardai in 2022 and claimed he was intimidated or extorted into paying the money. The trial, expected to last up to three weeks, will resume with Judge Sinéad Ní Chúlacháin presiding.
A 62-year-old woman died from severe blunt force trauma to the head and suffered multiple fractures to her skull, including one which may have been caused by 'a stomping or kicking type of impact', a pathologist has told the Central Criminal Court. Luke Donnelly (29), of no fixed abode, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of his mother Catherine Henry at her apartment on Bridge Street in Dundalk, Co Louth on a date unknown between May 23 and 24, 2023. The trial jury heard on the day the case opened that Mr Donnelly accepts he caused multiple fractures to his mother's skull and that he left a blood-stained footprint on her back. State pathologist Dr Heidi Okkers today told Garret Baker SC, prosecuting, that she conducted a post-mortem on Ms Henry on May 25, 2023 and found that her hair, hands and face were heavily blood-stained. She said death had been pronounced after 8pm on May 24, 2023.
A Tipperary hospital has issued an apology to the parents of Freddie, a baby who died during birth in 2021, admitting to 'shortfalls' in its duty of care. The incident occurred at Tipperary University Hospital, where the mother, Sinead O'Donnell, attended for ante-natal care and was transferred to the Labour Ward after experiencing pains. A Caesarian Section was performed, but the baby was born without a heart rate or respiratory ability, and resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. The hospital admitted to failures in responding to a CTG scan and delays in attending to the mother, which may have contributed to the stillbirth. The clinical negligence case was brought by the parents against the HSE, alleging breaches of duty and negligence in care. The hospital's letter of apology, issued by Maria Barry, expressed sincere regret for the shortfalls in care that led to the stillbirth of Freddie. The judge in the case extended his deepest sympathy to the couple, acknowledging the tragic loss of their son.
A murder trial jury has viewed CCTV and mobile phone footage of a series of physical altercations that preceded the fatal stabbing of a Dublin father-of-three. Joseph Lawlor, 39, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Ryan, 51, in a carpark near his home on June 20, 2024. The prosecution, led by Kevin White SC, stated that CCTV footage shows a series of altercations between the accused and the deceased before Lawlor stabbed Ryan in the neck. Detective Garda Brendan Kearns presented footage of the accused's home, where two ornamental Samurai swords were found on the floor. Garda Ronan Kelly compiled hundreds of hours of CCTV footage, showing Lawlor and another woman purchasing alcohol before the altercations began. The footage captured the physical confrontations between Lawlor and Ryan, which were also recorded by neighbours using their mobile phones. The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath and the jury, with the issue of whether the accused intended to kill or cause serious injury to the deceased remaining central to the case.
A murder trial at the Central Criminal Court heard that a Dublin man, Joseph Lawlor, allegedly stabbed his friend, Michael Ryan, in the neck while wearing a stab-proof vest. Kevin White SC opened the trial, stating that Lawlor and Ryan were friends who had a series of drunken rows. The court heard that Lawlor threatened to stab Ryan and later thrust a large kitchen knife into his neck. CCTV and audio recordings were presented as evidence, showing Lawlor on top of Ryan during a fight and later running out of the garden with the knife. The prosecution argued that Lawlor intended to kill or cause serious injury when he thrust the knife into Ryan's neck. The evidence showed that Ryan tried to fend off Lawlor with a black bag before the attack. The trial continues, with the court needing to determine whether Lawlor's actions were intentional. The judge, Mr Justice Patrick McGrath, is presiding over the case, and the jury will consider the evidence to reach a verdict. Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty.
A once-aspiring model, Ana Coretchi, has been awarded €80K in damages by the High Court after suffering first-degree burns and scarring on her legs following a laser hair-removal treatment in 2020. Ms Coretchi, who was preparing her portfolio for a full-time modelling career, claimed that the procedure left her with lasting burns and scarring. The court heard that she suffered extensive brown discolouration and skin ulceration, which were confirmed by a GP. A dermatologist consultant noted that she had extensive white hypopigmentation on her posterior thighs, which may be permanent. Ms Coretchi experienced a burning sensation for three weeks and had to put her modelling career on hold due to the injuries. The court awarded her €80K in general damages, noting the impact on her self-view and career path. The judge was satisfied of negligence on the part of the clinic and awarded the damages to the plaintiff.
A trial in the Central Criminal Court heard that Luke Donnelly, 29, admitted to manslaughter but denied murder in the death of his mother, Catherine Henry, 62. His sister, Kathleen Donnelly, testified that their mother was physically, verbally, and emotionally abusive to her children on a daily basis. She also stated that Luke idolised their mother despite her abuse. Luke's father, Gerry Donnelly, recounted incidents where Catherine stabbed him with a steak knife and pushed him down the stairs. Luke had a history of mental health issues and drug use, and his sister described him as being in a trance-like state before the incident. Luke's sister also mentioned that he had gone missing for a few days in November 2023 and had attempted suicide multiple times. The trial continues with the court considering the evidence presented. Luke Donnelly pleaded not guilty.
A jury has been selected for the trial of a 39-year-old man accused of murdering a father of three in Dublin. At the Central Criminal Court, Joseph Lawlor pleaded not guilty to the murder of Michael Ryan, who was killed outside the accused's home in Hampton Wood Way, St Margaret's Road, Finglas, Dublin 11 on June 20, 2024. The prosecution is being led by Kevin White SC, while the accused is represented by Séamus Clarke SC. The trial is expected to last up to three weeks and will begin tomorrow before Mr Justice Patrick McGrath. The jury consists of six men and six women. The case has drawn significant attention due to the tragic nature of the crime and the involvement of a family man as the victim. The court proceedings are expected to be closely followed by the media and the public. The trial will involve the presentation of evidence and witness testimonies to determine the guilt or innocence of the accused.
A former girlfriend of Luke Donnelly, who admitted killing but denied murdering his mother, testified at the Central Criminal Court that he claimed to be Jesus and told her he had cured her cancer. Stacey Campbell said Donnelly's drug use and deteriorating mental health were major concerns. She described how he arrived at her home in Drogheda, claiming to be Jesus, and how she contacted gardaí for help. Donnelly, who has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to manslaughter, was said to have had a close relationship with his mother, Catherine Henry. Ms Campbell recounted that Henry was in good health on the day before her death and that Donnelly was acting strangely, claiming to be Jesus. She said she last saw Henry alive at around 8:20 am on May 22, 2023, and learned of her death the following day. The trial continues with further evidence being presented.
A 23-year-old man who was due to face trial on an attempted murder charge at the Central Criminal Court has pleaded guilty to a lesser charge. James Greengrass, 25, of Chapel Place, Lismore, Co Waterford, had been charged with attempted murder on February 3, 2023, at the psychiatry department of University Hospital Waterford. Initially, he entered a plea of not guilty by reason of insanity, and a jury was empanelled to hear the case. However, following discussions between counsel, Greengrass re-arraigned before the court and pleaded guilty to a charge of attempting to cause serious harm. The Director of Public Prosecutions, represented by Michael Delaney SC, accepted the plea on a full facts basis and stated that a nolle prosequi would be entered in respect of the attempted murder charge. Defence counsel, Michael Bowman SC, noted that Greengrass has no previous convictions and suffers from significant psychiatric difficulties. He requested an extension of legal aid to cover a psychiatric report, as well as probation and education reports.
A familial abuse trial is ongoing before Ms Justice Caroline Biggs, involving seven men accused of sexually abusing a deaf woman over a 17-year period from 1996 to 2013. The defendants, comprising four brothers and three uncles, have all pleaded not guilty to a combined total of 103 charges. During cross-examination, the complainant, who is giving evidence via video link with interpreters, denied confusing the accused with another man and insisted she is telling the truth. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, faces one count of rape alleged to have occurred between December 2009 and April 2011. Accused B, aged 48, is accused of eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape between December 2008 and December 2010. Accused C, 34, faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape against the primary complainant between 2001 and 2013, plus additional charges against two other sisters, including sexual assault, rape, and anal rape. Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 charges of rape and three counts of anal rape between 2002 and 2013. Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven counts of rape between 2003 and 2011. Accused F, also 32, denied five counts of anal rape and rape between 2007 and 2010. Accused G, 45, denied a single count of rape between 1996 and 1997. The trial continues.
A teenage boy has been awarded €90,000 by the High Court after sustaining a knee injury during an obstacle course at a sports activity centre, which prevented him from playing sports for 15 months. Dylan Callaghan (15), suing through his father, Wesley Callaghan, brought the case against Alive Outside Activity Centre and Blessington No 1 School over an incident in June 2022. Dylan suffered a five-centimetre wound to his knee on the obstacle course during a school excursion. The plaintiffs claimed the injury was caused by a hidden trap or danger in a pool of water. Dylan received medical treatment at Our Lady's Children Hospital, including surgery and antibiotic treatment. He was discharged in December 2022 with a full range of motion and normal gait, though he was left with a scar and had to curtail his sporting activities for 15 months. At the High Court, Ms Justice Leonie Reynolds approved a €90,000 settlement for the Callaghan family. The judge noted that Dylan had since recovered mobility and was playing golf with a nine handicap.
A man who admits killing but denies murdering his mother accepts that he caused multiple fractures to her skull and that he left a blood-stained footprint on her back, a trial jury has heard. Luke Donnelly (29), of no fixed abode, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the manslaughter of Catherine Henry (62) at her apartment on Bridge Street in Dundalk, Co Louth on a date unknown between May 23 and 24 2023. Garret Baker SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the panel would also hear that the accused was behaving in an erratic way before the killing, including by repeatedly asserting that he was 'Jesus Christ' and the son of God. The prosecution's case is that Mr Donnelly went to his mother's address on Bridge Street early on the morning of May 23 and that the deceased was murdered at that location. The court will also hear evidence from a State pathologist who had conducted a postmortem on May 25, which found extensive blunt force trauma to Ms Henry's face and head.
An online Workplace Relations Commission hearing into an Unfair Dismissals Act complaint by Donna Ashe against Skerries Golf Club was adjourned for a written decision. Adjudication officer Conor Stokes warned the club's honorary secretary, Donnacha Neary, of potential perjury prosecution after Neary attempted to swear a religious oath using a book that was not the Holy Bible. Neary subsequently gave evidence under a secular affirmation. Neary testified that a finance subcommittee identified a potential annual saving of €7,500 by outsourcing cleaning services, characterizing the dismissal as a genuine redundancy arising from a structural business decision. He denied that performance issues triggered the dismissal, despite a May 2024 WhatsApp message from a committee member complaining about cleaning standards and threatening new hires. Ms. Ashe, a part-time cleaner earning €12.70 an hour, was dismissed in October 2024. Her barrister, Christian Douglas, argued the redundancy was a sham and the process grossly unfair, noting Ms. Ashe was not offered reduced hours. The tribunal heard details of two meetings in September 2024, including a five-minute final meeting where the decision was communicated. Stokes is to deliver his decision in writing at a later date.
A retired judge is seeking to have a personal injury claim against him struck out, following allegations of sexual assault at a book launch in Kerry. Judge James O'Connor, who retired in 2018, denies all allegations. The woman claims she was sexually assaulted by him at the Gleneagle Hotel in Killarney in 2017. The High Court heard that the Director of Public Prosecutions decided against a criminal prosecution. The judge's solicitor argues the claim is statute-barred and malicious, citing the delay in bringing the case and the lack of notice. The woman's counsel countered that the limitation period for personal injury claims is six years and that the case was brought within that timeframe. The court has reserved judgment on whether to strike out the proceedings.
The trial of seven men accused of familial sexual abuse is ongoing before the Central Criminal Court, with the judge warning jurors to treat one another with respect amid reported discord. The defendants, aged 32 to 55, have pleaded not guilty to a combined total of 103 charges, primarily concerning a deaf relative abused between 1996 and 2013. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, faces one count of rape; Accused B, 48, faces eight counts including oral and anal rape; and Accused G, 45, faces one count of rape. Four brothers are also charged: Accused C, 34, faces 45 counts of rape and anal rape, plus additional charges against two other sisters, including sexual assault of Complainant 2 and rape of Complainant 3; Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape; Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape; and Accused F, 32, denied five counts of rape and anal rape. The complainant is currently being cross-examined via video-link with interpreters. The matter is at the trial stage and has not been finalised.
A judge is set to rule next month on whether Riad Bouchaker, charged with assaulting a care worker and attempting to murder three children on Parnell Square in Dublin, is fit to stand trial. Mr Justice Tony Hunt has heard evidence from two psychiatrists, who differ on whether Mr Bouchaker (51) has the cognitive ability to instruct his legal team, enter a plea, and engage in the trial process. A prosecution psychiatrist stated that despite Mr Bouchaker's serious neurocognitive disorder, he can be accommodated at trial with appropriate measures. However, a defence psychiatrist argued that Mr Bouchaker is "utterly cognitively incapable" of understanding the trial process. The judge has ordered that legal representatives for the accused and the identities of the doctors giving evidence are not to be named in media reports. Mr Bouchaker is charged with the attempted murder of two girls and one boy, as well as with assault causing serious harm to a care worker. The incident occurred at Parnell Square East on the afternoon of November 23, 2023.
A jury has been sworn in for the trial of James Greengrass, a UK national accused of attempting to murder a fellow patient at a psychiatric facility. Greengrass, 25, of Chapel Place, Lismore, Co Waterford, has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity to the attempted murder of the other patient on 3 February, 2023 at the psychiatry department of University Hospital Waterford. The accused answered 'Not guilty by reason of insanity' when the charge was read to him at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin. The alleged victim was one of the proposed witnesses on a list read out by Mr Justice Sean Gillane. The jury pool was told that the case would involve issues of mental health, and a jury of four men and eight women was empanelled for the trial, which is expected to last seven or eight days.
A man who admits the manslaughter of his mother in Dundalk three years ago but denies her murder will stand trial later this week. Luke Donnelly, 29, of no fixed abode, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Catherine Henry in May 2023 but admitted to her manslaughter. The charge against Donnelly is of murdering Ms Henry on a date unknown between 23 and 24 May, 2023 at an apartment on Bridge Street in Dundalk, Co Louth. Donnelly answered 'Not guilty; guilty of manslaughter' when asked by the court registrar. Mr Justice Seán Gillane informed the jury pool that Ms Henry is the mother of the accused and swore in a panel of five women and seven men to hear the trial. The two-week trial is set to commence on Thursday, with the jury instructed to return to the court on that day.
A judge has entered a not guilty plea on behalf of a 35-year-old man, who is charged with the murder of his father at their home in Dublin nearly two years ago, after the accused did not respond at his arraignment. Seth Whelan was before the Central Criminal Court this afternoon and is charged with the murder of Michael Whelan (64) at their flat on Herberton Park, Rialto, Dublin 8 on a date unknown between February 19 and 27, 2024. When the registrar read the first count on the indictment to the accused man and asked him how he was pleading, he did not respond. Mr Justice Tony Hunt told the jury panel that his only option was to enter a not guilty plea on behalf of the accused man. Seth Whelan is also charged with damaging property, namely a Ring doorbell camera, on February 20, 2024. The judge swore in a jury of four men and eight women to hear the trial, which will begin tomorrow. The jurors were asked to make themselves available until February 20 next.
Riad Bouchaker, charged with assaulting a care worker and attempting to murder three children on Parnell Square in Dublin, is deemed fit to stand trial by a State psychiatrist, despite suffering from a serious neurocognitive disorder. The psychiatrist stated that Bouchaker can understand the charges against him and can participate in the trial process, although he may require closed questions and an interpreter. The defense psychiatrist, however, argued that Bouchaker is unfit to stand trial due to his memory issues and inability to weigh choices. The court is assessing Bouchaker's fitness to stand trial, with the State psychiatrist concluding that he is capable of understanding the legal process. The case involves serious charges, including attempted murder and assault, and the court will continue to hear evidence on the matter.
Lawyers for Sean McGovern, who was extradited from the United Arab Emirates to face charges of murder and directing a criminal organization, have told the Special Criminal Court that they are not in a position to indicate whether a trial date will be required. McGovern's defense counsel, Sean Guerin SC, stated that significant progress has been made in the case but that they are not yet ready to determine if a trial date is necessary. McGovern, who is charged with the murder of Noel Kirwan and directing a criminal organization, appeared via videolink. The court adjourned the matter to February 23, with McGovern to appear again by videolink. His lawyers have raised concerns about the legality of his extradition, and the court will continue to hear evidence on the matter.
Dundalk FC confirmed the settlement of a workplace dispute with former press officer Gavin McLaughlin at the Workplace Relations Commission. The tribunal was informed that the matter would not proceed with a hearing into McLaughlin's complaints, which included alleged breaches of the Payment of Wages Act 1991, the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, and the Redundancy Payments Act 1967. McLaughlin's solicitor, Francis Watters, stated that all complaints had been withdrawn, and he thanked Emma Coffey, the club's solicitor, for her efforts in resolving the matter. The presence of two legal teams on behalf of the club was noted by adjudication officer Christina Ryan, with one team representing the club in the context of a directors' dispute. This case is the third such dispute against the club in the past 18 months, following similar cases involving former director of football Brian Gartland and former chief operations officer Martin Connolly.
Eleven Romanian workers were dismissed by an engineering firm, Rigotec International Ltd, days after they were subjected to racist behaviour at the Intel plant in Co Kildare, a tribunal has heard. Trade union Unite accused the firm of unlawful dismissal in a "sham redundancy" in February 2024. Six of the workers are pursuing complaints under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977. Rigotec maintains the redundancies were genuine and the result of a downturn in work. At the Workplace Relations Commission, counsel for the employer, Cillian McGovern BL, stated that two men had engaged in racist behaviour towards the complainants. Site manager Alan Jennings said one worker made a racist remark and received a written warning, while another was dismissed for aggressive behaviour. The workers were let go four days later, including the man who made the racist remark. Andrew Turner of Hamilton Turner Solicitors, appearing for the workers, argued that the redundancies were a sham and not due to a downturn in work. Adjudicator Monica Brennan will return her decision at a later date.
A printer, Declan Walsh, has claimed he was unfairly dismissed from his job at Labelcraft in Tallaght, Dublin 24, after he called for the sacking of a colleague for alleged aggression and a 'ghetto attitude' towards him. Walsh, who earned €48,000 annually, was terminated in September 2024 following a disciplinary investigation. His employer, Poolville Ltd, argued that Walsh made a 'false allegation' about his manager looking through his bag, leading to a breakdown of trust. During the tribunal, Walsh stated that his manager, Mr M, had been aggressive towards him, including an incident where he was confronted on the factory floor. Walsh claimed that other employees were plotting against him due to his superior performance and that Mr M had secured his job through a supervisor from the same Dublin neighbourhood, Clondalkin. Walsh also mentioned that Mr M had a 'confidant' from Clondalkin who would give him lifts to work. He expressed that he found it offensive when Mr M referred to him with a 'ghetto attitude'.
A 24-year-old man has pleaded guilty to a range of terrorism-related charges, including the arson of a pub owned by Conor McGregor and a knife attack on gardai in Dublin city centre. Abdullah Khan, who cannot have his address disclosed due to a court order, appeared before the Special Criminal Court and was arraigned on eight counts. His defence counsel, Michael Bowman SC, highlighted a 'complex psychological background' and requested a report on the defendant. Khan admitted to charges that include arson at the Black Forge Inn on July 25, 2025, and a knife attack on gardai on July 29, 2025, at Capel Street. He was also charged with two counts of endangerment and two counts of engaging in terrorist activity. The court, presided over by Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, adjourned the case for victim impact statements and scheduled a further hearing for March 23. Khan was remanded in custody.
A garda with severe asthma has brought complaints of disability discrimination, harassment and victimisation before the Workplace Relations Commission, alleging he was ordered to return to frontline duties at Longford Garda Station during a winter Covid-19 surge in January 2022, contrary to medical advice to cocoon. The garda, who has served since 2000, claims he was directed to report for foot patrol on 1 January 2022 despite health vulnerabilities and poor workplace safety measures. State counsel argued the garda was "grossly exaggerating" safety requirements and that appropriate protective measures were in place. The State also contends there are jurisdictional issues with the commission hearing the claims. The garda's legal representatives countered that management showed a dismissive attitude towards disability accommodation. The tribunal heard closing arguments on the ninth day of hearings in the equality case today.
The Central Criminal Court jury trial of seven men accused of familial abuse has been adjourned until January 12 for the Christmas break. The accused, aged 32 to 55, have all pleaded not guilty to a combined total of 103 charges. The primary complainant, who is deaf, completed her evidence-in-chief via video-link with interpreters and an intermediary. She alleged that Accused F, her 32-year-old brother, raped and anally raped her between 2007 and 2010. Accused A, a 55-year-old uncle, is accused of one count of rape. Accused B, another uncle, faces eight counts of rape, oral rape, and anal rape. Accused C, 34, is accused of 45 counts of rape and anal rape against the primary complainant, plus further charges of sexual assault and rape against two other sisters, Complainant 2 and Complainant 3. Accused D, 33, pleaded not guilty to 19 counts of rape and three of anal rape. Accused E, 32, denied nine counts of anal rape and seven of rape. Accused G, 45, denied one count of rape. Ms Justice Caroline Biggs directed the jury to return on January 12, noting that preparatory work would occur during the break. All allegations remain contested, and no findings or sentences have been issued.
Drug dealers made a "very nasty threat" to a money mule mother-of-three who got into a cocaine debt, a Dublin court has heard. Garda Paddy Kelleher was giving evidence at the sentence hearing at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court of Anna Stewart (36) for laundering money stolen from a Kildare resident. He agreed with Kieran Kelly BL, defending, that Stewart had become addicted to cocaine after the break-up of a relationship and racked up a drugs debt. Gda Kelleher testified that Stewart came under pressure from the drug dealers, who told her she could get something taken off the debt if she gave them access to her bank account. Counsel told the court that they made a further threat "of a very nasty nature". Judge Orla Crowe noted that gardai accepted that this was a real threat and was "particularly serious". Stewart of Kiltalown Avenue, Tallaght, Dublin 24 pleaded guilty to having possession of the proceeds of crime on a date in May 2021.
Riad Bouchaker, charged with assaulting a care worker and attempting to murder three children on Parnell Square in Dublin, is alleged to be unfit to stand trial due to a mental disorder, according to his defence lawyers. A consultant forensic psychiatrist testified that Bouchaker, who has a complex medical history, suffered a brain injury during the incident and had prior brain surgery. The psychiatrist stated that if Bouchaker is deemed unfit, he would be reviewed every six months by the mental health criminal law review board. Bouchaker, 51, faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and assault. The incident occurred on November 23, 2023, and involved a chaotic scene with multiple stab wounds to children and a care worker. The psychiatrist noted that Bouchaker has a history of epilepsy, a brain tumour, and partial blindness in his right eye. She found that he has moderate dementia and impaired judgment, making it difficult for him to understand the charges or mount a defence.
A jury at the Central Criminal Court unanimously convicted five men from Tipperary of colluding to inflate tender prices for school bus services in the south west of Ireland. The defendants—Raymond Heney, Andrew Walsh, Noel Browne, Larry Hickey and Anthony Flynn—were alleged to have coordinated bids for routes supplied by Bus Éireann, which handled 10% of school routes while contractors managed the remaining 90%. The prosecution argued that the men's concerted practice, led by Heney, aimed to prevent, restrict or distort competition, thereby affecting taxpayers and the Department of Education's €163 million budget for 2015. Each defendant pleaded not guilty. The court remanded all five on continuing bail pending a sentencing hearing on 23 March 2026. The case was brought by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and the Director of Public Prosecutions. The trial focused on the alleged coordination and exchange of information among the operators, rather than any formal agreement.