A Dublin taxi driver has been ordered to pay €12,000 to a visually impaired couple after refusing them service and driving off without them and their guide dog at Heuston Station in December 2024. Anthony Clarke and Lisa O'Donovan, both visually impaired, reported the incident to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), where they alleged the driver, Abiodun Dongo, was abusive and aggressive. The couple had travelled from Cork with Clarke's guide dog and approached Dongo at the taxi rank. Dongo allegedly reacted abruptly, refused to take the guide dog, and drove off without them. The WRC found that the couple had been discriminated against on grounds of disability and denied reasonable accommodation. Adjudication officer Valerie Murtagh upheld their complaints and ordered Dongo to pay €6,000 each. She also directed that Dongo comply with equality legislation in the future. The couple described the incident as highly embarrassing and humiliating, and the tribunal found them to be credible witnesses. The decision highlights the importance of accommodating individuals with disabilities and the consequences of failing to do so.
A man who killed a pensioner with an MMA-style back spin kick has been jailed for five years. Joshua Rush (25) pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Charles McCaughley (69) at Fairview Strand, Dublin 3 on June 7, 2021. The court heard that Rush delivered a deliberate kick to the victim, who later died from a traumatic brain injury. Judge Martina Baxter described the attack as unprovoked and called Rush's actions callous. She sentenced him to six-and-a-half years in prison, with the final 18 months suspended on conditions. Rush expressed genuine remorse and has no previous convictions. His sister, the victim's closest relative, did not want to see anyone jailed for his death. Rush's defence highlighted his difficult family background and mental health issues, asking the court to consider his culpability as low.
The Court of Appeal has criticized the failure of gardai to interview the wife of an octogenarian child abuser but ruled that her husband's trial was not rendered unfair as a result. The man, now 87, had argued that his wife would have supported his claim that the girl did not spend the night at their home on the night of the attacks. He was convicted of two counts of sexual assault in 1991 and sentenced to two years in prison. His appeal focused on the absence of his wife's statement, which his lawyers claimed would have challenged the victim's credibility. However, the court noted that his wife had died before the trial and that her potential evidence was not certain to be admitted. The judge also pointed out that the victim's evidence was not challenged on the issue of her staying at the abuser's home. The court concluded that the trial, while imperfect, did not result in unfairness for the appellant. The unnamed 87-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A 27-year-old man who was convicted of orally raping his younger half-sister when he was a teenager has been sentenced to six years in prison, with the final two years suspended on strict conditions. The judge criticized a testimonial that described the defendant as having a 'strong moral compass' despite his convictions. The court heard that the abuse occurred in the girl's home, where she was a vulnerable child, and that the defendant was in a position of trust as her older step-brother. The judge noted that the age difference and the location of the abuse were aggravating factors. The defendant expressed remorse and accepted his guilt, but the judge emphasized the severity of the crime. The victim's impact statement highlighted the long-term trauma she experienced, including the loss of her sense of safety and the emotional toll of the court process. The defendant will also be placed on the Sex Offenders' Register for five years and will undergo supervision by the Probation Service after his release.
A hijacker who took part in the robbery of a taxi on the M50, which saw the driver try to escape on the busy motorway, has been jailed for three years. Judge Martin Nolan said it was lucky there was no collisions as a result of the incident, which took place close to the M50 Finglas junction on September 15, 2024. Robert Brogan (41) came forward on a signed guilty plea at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to one count of hijacking on that date. His co-accused has taken a bench warrant. Garda Gavin Campbell told the court that he was on patrol on the date in question when he noticed the driver's seat of a car open on the M50. An articulated lorry had just overtaken the car immediately prior to this, the court heard. The gardai pulled up behind the vehicle in question and found Brogan and a co-accused in the process of trying to hijack a taxi driver.
A man known as a 'predatory thief' has been jailed for three years after stealing a tourist's bank card and withdrawing €220 from an ATM in Dublin. Viorel Rostas, who has 79 previous convictions, was convicted of theft and cash fraud. The court heard that the tourist was drinking and got into a taxi with Rostas, who watched him enter his PIN at an ATM and then stole the card. Rostas used the card to withdraw money and was later identified by gardai. Despite his criminal history and high risk of reoffending, the judge noted that Rostas had a work history and had apologized for his actions. The judge described Rostas's behavior as predatory and deliberate, emphasizing that he targeted the victim with intent. Rostas was sentenced to three years in prison, with the judge acknowledging his personal circumstances but emphasizing the seriousness of the crime.
Convicted killer Derek Moore, who was banned from driving and was involved in a serious collision that injured a grandmother, has been granted permission to travel abroad for a family holiday while awaiting sentencing. Moore, who has 44 previous convictions, including dangerous driving and drug possession, was involved in a high-speed incident in Dublin where he struck a grandmother, causing her serious injuries. Despite the severity of the case, a judge allowed him to travel abroad for one week. Moore has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and is awaiting sentencing, with the court considering his recent diagnosis of ADHD and his need for medication. The grandmother, who suffered facial injuries, a stroke, and a brain bleed, required extensive medical treatment and is now in constant pain. Moore's legal team argued that he would return to Ireland if allowed to travel, and the judge noted that he had previously complied with bail conditions.
A thief who was caught with a mobile phone he could not unlock has had his jail sentence more than halved on appeal. Judge Simon McAleese told Keith Commins (29) that he hoped he would not be proven "naive and overindulgent" in his decision to suspend part of the appellant's sentence. Commins was previously convicted of possessing stolen property, failing to comply with a garda member, and resisting or wilfully obstructing a garda. He received a three-month jail sentence and a one-month consecutive sentence. He later lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. Gardai found the phone during a patrol and noted that messages on the phone referred to a work presentation, despite Commins saying it belonged to his unemployed girlfriend. Defence counsel, Lydia Daly BL, said that her client is serving a nine-month sentence for another matter and has secured stable accommodation upon his release. Judge McAleese decided to suspend the three and one month consecutive sentences for a period of two years.
A man who is serving a sentence for drug dealing has had his jail term extended by 15 months for further offences of drug dealing and money laundering. Colin Radburn (37) was jailed for four and a half years in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court last November after he was pulled over at a garda checkpoint and found to have €350,000 worth of cocaine and £15,520 in cash in his van. He appeared before the court today on signed guilty pleas to one count of possessing cannabis, one count of possessing the drugs for sale or supply, and one count of money laundering. These charges relate to €19,218 of cannabis and €23,500 in cash which gardai found when they searched his van. Radburn made admissions in custody and told gardai he had a drug debt and was under pressure to transport the drugs and the cash. He now has 32 previous convictions, including the offences he carried out in February 2025.
Two criminals involved in a "very disturbing" assault in which the victim was punched, pulled to the ground and kicked have been jailed for three years and three months. Aidan Daniels (30) and Adam Kelly (21) pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault with intent to cause bodily harm at the Daybreak shop in Loughlinstown, Dublin, on June 23, 2025. Judge Martina Baxter handed both men a sentence of three years and three months, backdated to when they went into custody. Garda Sinead Whelan told the court that a member of the public anonymously called gardai after witnessing the attack outside the shop. The victim declined to make any statement to gardai, but the defendants were identified from CCTV of the attack. Viewing this footage in court, Judge Baxter said: "This is very disturbing." The footage showed Kelly punching and kneeing the victim as he "slides to the ground." She said the victim was then defenceless on the ground and being dragged by his hoodie with one of the men dragging him by his leg.
A permanent ban will remain in place restraining a Tipperary farmer from entering lands that had been in his family for decades but were sold by receivers in 2022 for €1.5M to US-based businessman Maurice Regan. Farmer Patrick Heffernan had his application dismissed after he asked for an extension of time to appeal a ruling by the Circuit Court in Tipperary barring him from attending or trespassing on the 83 hectares of land. The application came before the Civil Court of Appeal after Mr Heffernan challenged an order of the Deputy Master made in October 2025 refusing to extend time for a notice of appeal. Ms Justice Eileen Roberts said the Circuit Court order in January 2025 was made on an unopposed basis in the absence of Mr Heffernan, who resides next to the lands near Fethard, Co Tipperary. Ms Justice Roberts said Mr Heffernan had mortgaged the land to AIB Bank and ACC Bank to secure borrowings.
Irish air safety authorities reportedly showed no interest in an Aer Lingus pilot's concerns about alleged cabin air contamination, according to his legal team. However, within two weeks of the pilot raising the issue with the European Air Safety Authority (EASA), the airline grounded several planes in anticipation of an airworthiness directive. The pilot, Tom O'Riordan, claims he was unfairly dismissed after raising concerns about toxic fumes on a flight and suffered health issues as a result. The tribunal heard that the grounding of the planes was linked to potential damage to engine seals and gaskets. O'Riordan's legal team argues that he was penalized for whistleblowing, while the airline maintains there was no connection between the pilot's disclosure and the grounding of the planes. The case is ongoing, with the tribunal considering whether the pilot was unfairly dismissed and whether the airline's actions were influenced by his disclosures.
Four men are to stand trial at the Special Criminal Court in connection with a plot to carry out a terrorist attack on a mosque in Galway last November. The accused, Darren Gorman, Charles Flynn, Garrett Pollock, and Karolis Peckauskas, are charged with attempting to engage in a terrorist activity to damage Maryam Mosque. The charges are aggravated by hatred, and the accused are also charged with possessing offensive weapons and explosive substances. Peckauskas and Pollock are accused of having hatchets, a knuckle duster, and a hunting knife in a BMW, as well as possessing hydrogen peroxide and other explosive materials. The State solicitor applied for the trial to be held in the Special Criminal Court, and the court ordered the case to proceed with the defendants to be produced in person on May 11. The charges stem from the discovery of weapons and explosives in their possession, which were found in connection with the planned attack on the mosque. The case highlights the seriousness of the alleged plot and the potential threat to public safety.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44, with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in relation to extradition proceedings initiated by authorities in Northern Ireland. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in connection with the murder of Robbie Lawlor, shot dead in Belfast on 4 April 2020, and for possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His legal representatives submitted that extradition could prejudice his right to a fair trial, citing divergent interpretations of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and EU regarding the admissibility of encrypted phone data. The High Court rejected an application for additional senior counsel representation, with Mr Justice Sean Gillane finding the legal arguments sufficiently clear. Gill was remanded in custody pending a bail application on 6 May. The extradition hearing is scheduled for 3 June.
Sean McGovern, a Kinahan cartel lieutenant, has asked the Special Criminal Court to give him credit for pleading guilty to directing the criminal organization in the murder of a grandfather and the attempted murder of another man. His lawyers also requested additional credit for the time he spent in harsh conditions in a Dubai prison before his extradition to Ireland. McGovern pleaded guilty to directing the activities of the criminal organization in the murder of Christopher Kirwan and the surveillance of James Gately. His defense argued that his role was limited to surveillance and communication, not planning or executing the attacks. Michael Bowman SC highlighted the guilty plea as a significant mitigating factor and requested a reduction in the sentence beyond the standard 25 percent. He also presented testimonials from McGovern's family, emphasizing his rehabilitation and current status in Portlaoise Prison. The prosecution, however, questioned whether additional credit should be given due to McGovern's challenge to his extradition, which prolonged his time in Dubai.
A man accused of failing to comply with a garda's direction and using abusive language during a protest had the charges against him dismissed on appeal. Paul Fitzsimons was initially charged with failing to comply with a garda sergeant's instructions and using threatening or abusive words. However, the court dismissed the charges, with the judge calling Fitzsimons's behavior 'despicable' but not finding sufficient evidence to support the charges. Fitzsimons claimed that the sergeant punched him three times before arresting him, but the sergeant denied this. The judge ruled that the evidence did not demonstrate that Fitzsimons was acting in a way that posed a threat to public safety or that he intended to provoke a breach of the peace. The judge also dismissed the charge of threatening or abusive behavior, noting that Fitzsimons's words were directed at the sergeant rather than as a rallying cry to others. The case was dismissed, with the judge acknowledging the seriousness of the behavior but finding it insufficient to support the charges.
The Supreme Court has ruled that TikTok can continue operating in Ireland while it appeals a €530 million fine imposed by the Data Protection Commission (DPC) for alleged breaches of privacy laws. The DPC had accused TikTok of allowing user data to be accessed by engineers in China, violating EU data protection rules. TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, had appealed the fine in the High Court, which granted a stay on the orders requiring the company to pay the fine and stop making user data accessible in China. The Supreme Court dismissed the DPC's appeal, stating that the test regarding the stay was a matter of national law, not EU law. The court emphasized the need to balance the potential irreparable harm to TikTok if the stay was not imposed against the public interest. The case is now set to proceed with the substantive appeal, with TikTok Technologies UK Ltd ultimately responsible for any fine. TikTok claims the DPC breached fair procedures in its decision.
A 42-year-old man was convicted of breaching a safety order after calling his former partner a 'tramp' and making an offensive gesture at a food market. The victim, who was with her new partner and children, stated that the accused drove through the car park, passed her, and made the offensive remarks. The accused denied the allegations, claiming he had gone to the market to buy an air-conditioning unit and had not made any offensive gestures. The court found the victim's evidence credible and convicted the accused. The judge noted that the incident was at the lower end of domestic violence but emphasized that all such cases are serious. The accused, who was already serving a suspended sentence, was ordered to undergo a community service suitability report. The defense highlighted the accused's willingness to engage with the MOVE programme and his part-time work. The unnamed 42-year-old pleaded not guilty.
A self-proclaimed 'drugs lord' named Craig O'Connell, who had 62 previous convictions, was jailed for nine years for raping a 16-year-old girl. O'Connell falsely claimed the girl owed him €12,000 and threatened her with violence if she did not comply. He convinced her to have sex with him, recording the act to provide proof. O'Connell continued to extort money from the girl, taking items such as her mother's wedding band and an engagement ring. He also threatened her former boyfriend, falsely accusing him of being a 'rat' and making him sell drugs to repay a debt. O'Connell pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including rape, theft, and coercion. The court noted the abuse of trust and the deliberate planning to terrify the victims. The judge imposed a sentence of 11 years for the rape and a consecutive six-year term for making a demand with menace. O'Connell was also ordered to attend sex offender treatment and be under post-release supervision.
In a Central Criminal Court trial, defence counsel for six men accused of familial abuse have argued that the primary complainant's evidence is contradictory. The men, aged between 32 and 55, face 20 charges, including 16 related to the main complainant, who is deaf. The accused include her three uncles and three younger brothers, with one brother charged with additional counts involving other sisters. All have denied the charges. The alleged abuse is said to have occurred over 19 years, from 1995 to 2014. Defence counsel highlighted inconsistencies in the complainant's account, including changes in her statements about being drunk during an alleged incident. They also pointed to flaws in the garda interviews and suggested the complainant may have confused events involving other individuals. The trial continues with the jury hearing closing speeches from the defence.
Daniel Hutchinson was convicted of assault causing harm after attacking a stranger with a champagne bottle, leaving him in a coma for four days. The incident occurred on North Earl Street in Dublin City Centre, where Hutchinson struck the victim 12 times on the head and face. The attack was captured on CCTV, and Hutchinson was arrested 30 minutes later. The victim suffered multiple fractures, a brain bleed, and required surgery. A victim impact statement highlighted the ongoing effects of the attack, including anxiety, panic attacks, and an inability to work in crowded places. Hutchinson, who had 10 previous convictions, claimed he was intoxicated and could not remember the incident. His defense highlighted that his son had died three days before the attack, leading him to go on a bender. The court adjourned the case until July 24 to allow for further reports to be submitted. Daniel Hutchinson pleaded guilty.
Two men, Vladislavs Temnis and Ik Joo Kang, were jailed for a combined 11 years after being caught with over €1 million in illicit cash days after arriving in Ireland. Both pleaded guilty to possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct. The Dublin Crime Response Team discovered the cash in a rented Skoda vehicle and later in a hotel room. The men were found to be involved in a money laundering operation. Judge Orla Crowe considered mitigating factors, including their lack of previous convictions and their early guilty pleas. Temnis received a four-year sentence, while Kang was sentenced to seven years. Both were given credit for time served and had their sentences backdated. The court heard that Kang had no knowledge of the criminal nature of the job and felt it was suspicious upon seeing the cash.
Jenifer Devine, a mother of eight, was given a suspended sentence for withholding information about her husband's involvement in the murder of her brother-in-law. Devine had fled with her husband, Christopher Devine, who was later convicted of murder. The court heard that Devine was afraid of her husband, who was described as a 'snake' and had a history of significant violence. Devine pleaded guilty to withholding information during the four-day period following the murder. The judge noted that Devine was the sole carer for her two youngest children while her husband was serving a life sentence. The court acknowledged her mental distress and the chaotic living conditions she faced. The judge imposed an 18-month suspended sentence, taking into account her guilty plea, lack of recent convictions, and her role as a primary carer. The victim's family expressed a significant rift due to the incident, and Devine's victim impact statement highlighted the emotional toll on her and her family. Christopher Devine pleaded not guilty.
A trial date has been set for Sean Harding (31), from Marian Terrace, Tipperary town, who is accused of murdering an 81-year-old pensioner, Timothy Murnane, in Tipperary town on September 12, 2025. Mr Murnane was found with serious injuries outside his home at St Michael's Avenue and later died at University Hospital Limerick two days later. In addition to the murder charge, Harding also faces three burglary charges related to the same location on September 11 and 12, 2025. The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court, where Mr Justice Paul McDermott set a trial date for October 5 and scheduled case management for June 5 next year. The court proceedings mark a significant step in the legal process for the accused, who is now set to face trial for the alleged murder and burglary charges. The case has drawn attention in the local community, with many awaiting the outcome of the trial.
Fergus Donegan, 57, accused of assaulting his next-door neighbour with a hammer and Stanley knife, has been granted bail on strict conditions. The alleged incident occurred on April 28, 2025, when Donegan is said to have injured his neighbour's hand with a hammer and caused a laceration above his eyebrow with a Stanley knife. Garda Aisling Power opposed bail, citing concerns about witness interference. Donegan's defence argued that he disputes the allegations and that he had been on the housing list for ten years, with arrangements to move to alternative accommodation. Judge Anne Watkin granted bail on a €500 bond, requiring Donegan to move out of his home and stay away from the area. He must also sign in daily at Bray Garda Station and avoid contact with the alleged victim. The case was adjourned for directions to September 15.
Boxer Aidan Metcalfe, 30, pleaded guilty to robbing an Afghan national of an electric scooter in a late-night attack. The incident occurred on September 8, 2023, when Metcalfe and two accomplices wrestled the scooter from the victim while a third man held him in a headlock. The scooter, valued at €120, was not recovered. Metcalfe's defence argued the offence was spontaneous and that he had consumed a significant amount of alcohol before the incident. He expressed remorse and wrote an apology letter to the victim. The court heard that Metcalfe has since reduced his alcohol intake and is working as a coach and father to a child with special needs. Judge Orla Crowe adjourned sentencing until July to allow a probation report to be prepared.
The prosecution in the Central Criminal Court trial of six men accused of familial abuse have told the jury that the family operated without intergenerational sexual boundaries. The men, aged between 32 and 55, face 20 charges, including 16 related to the main complainant, who is deaf. The accused include her three uncles and three younger brothers, with one brother charged with additional counts involving other sisters. All have denied the charges. The alleged abuse is said to have occurred over 19 years, from 1995 to 2014. The prosecution emphasized the dysfunctional nature of the family and the lack of sexual boundaries. They highlighted the credibility of the complainants and the theme of the accused men distancing themselves from the main complainant. The trial continues with the jury hearing closing arguments from the prosecution.
A man with 193 previous convictions, John Maughan, was given a fully suspended sentence for an attempted robbery that was described as 'heartless and cruel' by the judge. Maughan, 39, pleaded guilty to attempting to steal from a victim who was knocked to the ground during the incident. The court heard that he had not committed any offences in the past six years and had made 'exceptional' efforts to turn his life around. Judge Orla Crowe noted that while Maughan had a lesser role than his co-accused, he was present and twice attempted to steal from the victim. The judge described the victim's experience as being 'set upon and swirled around' by the group, highlighting a 'lack of humanity' and 'heartless and cruel' behaviour. The victim's impact statement was submitted but not read aloud. The judge acknowledged Maughan's difficult background, health issues, and rehabilitation efforts. She noted that his record and being on bail at the time would usually warrant a custodial sentence, but his recent behaviour was 'exceptional'.
Felix Adedayo, 55, appealed his conviction for threatening and abusive behaviour, parking offences, running a red light and driving without due care. The District Court had fined him €400 for the abusive conduct, €150 for obstructing traffic, €250 for the red‑light violation and another €250 for careless driving, and disqualified him from driving for six months. In the appeal, Judge Simon McAleese found that Adedayo's testimony was a "pack of lies" and that his conduct was "bizarre, extraordinary and aggressive." The judge upheld the original fines and disqualification, noting that the charges were the most modest possible and that no custodial sentence was imposed. The judge also praised Sergeant Killian Murphy for handling the incident "even‑handed" and "utterly polite.".
Dylan Brady, 39, of Ballybrack, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to assaulting a garda, obstructing a garda, threatening and abusive behaviour, failing to comply with a garda direction, and violent disorderly behaviour. The court heard that Brady, who has 133 previous convictions, became abusive towards staff at St Vincent's University Hospital A&E on November 3, 2024. After refusing a direction to leave, he was arrested and taken to Donnybrook Garda Station. There, he allegedly continued to be abusive, slammed doors, and spat in the face of Garda Lee O'Donoghue while attempting to grab him. Defence solicitor Andrew Vallely stated that Brady suffers from schizophrenia and psychosis and was not medically compliant at the time, noting he is now in residential treatment at Coolmine Lodge. Judge Anne Watkin described the station behaviour as "pretty serious" but decided to deal with the matter under the Probation Act given the guilty plea and treatment progress. Brady was placed on a 12-month probation bond on his own bond of €500, with an independent surety of €500. Conditions include notifying gardaí if he leaves Coolmine Lodge, remaining off alcohol and illegal drugs, engaging with the Probation Service and treatment providers, taking prescribed medication, and completing residential treatment. Judge Watkin warned Brady he "will be jailed" if he commits any further offences.
A worker from the Travelling Community, Kieran Reilly, has received €15,000 in compensation after being subjected to a derogatory remark during a sales meeting. The comment, made by a consultant, referred to the sales team as 'a pack of knackers going door to door selling tarmac,' which Reilly found deeply hurtful and offensive. The incident occurred shortly after Reilly started his job with Energy Centre Limited. The employer accepted liability for the harassment, acknowledging the remark was offensive and unacceptable. Reilly, however, felt the apology from the consultant and employer did not mitigate the harm caused, leading him to resign. The adjudicator, Brian Dolan, noted that the term used was derogatory and hostile, violating Reilly's dignity. He upheld the Employment Equality Act complaint and ordered the firm to pay four months' worth of compensation. The employer was also directed to provide workplace training on respect and dignity within two months.
Jonathan Gill, aged 44 and with an address on the Malahide Road in Clontarf, Dublin, appeared before the High Court in connection with an extradition application by Northern Irish authorities. Gill is wanted by the PSNI in relation to the murder of Robbie Lawlor, a 36-year-old man shot dead in Belfast on April 4, 2020. He faces charges on a joint enterprise basis and is also accused of possessing a 9mm self-loading pistol with intent to endanger life between April 2 and 5, 2020. The PSNI believe the killing was part of an ongoing drugs feud involving criminal elements across Dublin, Sligo and Drogheda. During proceedings before Mr Justice Sean Gillane, Gill's legal team sought to adjourn the bail application to renew a request for senior counsel. The counsel raised concerns regarding the lawfulness and admissibility of evidence, noting differing standards between European and UK courts. The judge remanded Gill in custody pending a renewed application for senior counsel on May 1. An extradition hearing is scheduled for June 3.
The husband of former Fine Gael TD Kate O'Connell has denied using offensive language towards an employee who accused his wife of bullying, leading to the employee's resignation from their pharmacy company two years ago. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) concluded its hearings into complaints by Marwan Al Rahbi, a supervising pharmacist who resigned from his €112,000-a-year role at Rathgar Pharmacy Ltd in 2024. Al Rahbi claimed that Kate O'Connell bullied him at work, and that he could not address the issue by approaching her husband, leading him to quit. He alleged that O'Connell was "very rude" to him after he used his phone at work to deal with a sick child. Al Rahbi said he was told by O'Connell to "Go the f*** back to work" while the latter was in hospital recovering from an injury. O'Connell denied using such language and stated that the company had a strict no-phones policy. The tribunal heard that Al Rahbi initiated a grievance against O'Connell, which was later withdrawn.
In a long‑running jury trial that began in October last year, the Director of Public Prosecutions withdrew the majority of the 103 charges against six men accused of sexually abusing a deaf female relative, and all charges against a seventh man were also withdrawn. The remaining men, aged 32 to 55, were re‑arraigned on 20 charges, 16 of which involve the main complainant. The accused include her three uncles and three younger brothers. Each defendant denies all allegations. The prosecution's closing speech, delivered by Roisin Lacey SC, explained that the charges had been amended to reflect the evidence more accurately, noting the complainant's borderline learning disability and language deprivation, which affect her ability to recall dates and sequences. The trial continues with the prosecution's next closing speech scheduled for tomorrow.
Declan Connolly, 42, of Dublin 9, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to attempting to make a gain by deception. The court heard that in May 2021, Connolly applied for a €20,000 loan from Ballygall Credit Union using false documents, including a Virgin Media bill, AIB bank statements, and pharmacy payslips. The loan was not granted, and no financial loss occurred. Judge Orla Crowe described the attempt as "ham-fisted" but deliberate, noting it required planning. Aggravating factors included Connolly's 12 previous convictions and the fact that he was serving a partly-suspended sentence for robbery at the time. Mitigating factors included his cooperation with the investigation, lack of further negative attention, and his role as a carer for his mother and part-time worker. Judge Crowe stated the court was "going to give this man a chance" and imposed an 18-month prison sentence, suspended for three years on strict conditions.
A motorist who committed a 'spontaneous and dreadful' road rage attack on a 64-year-old cyclist had his jail term replaced with a fully suspended sentence and his driving ban lifted on appeal. Glen Corcoran (30) was ordered to pay €15,000 to the victim's family, who had since passed away due to an unrelated illness. The judge noted that prisons are 'bursting at the seams' and questioned whether jail would serve any purpose. Corcoran had been given a ten-month custodial sentence, a five-year driving ban, and ordered to pay €10,000 in compensation. His appeal was based on the argument that the incident was a verbal dispute that got heated and was out of character for him. The judge decided to suspend the sentence for two years on the condition that Corcoran keeps the peace and pays the compensation. The driving ban was lifted, and Corcoran was told to ensure it never happens again. The unnamed 64-year-old pleaded guilty and was convicted.
Hotelier Noel O'Callaghan has failed to prevent his multi-million euro business dispute with his sons from going into arbitration, after a High Court judge found his arguments were "wholly inconsistent" with sworn evidence he gave in a previous application. Mr Justice Rory Mulcahy said Noel O'Callaghan argued that an arbitration agreement with his sons was invalid, despite having previously invoked the same agreement. The judge said the suggestion by Noel O'Callaghan that the agreement was invalid "is wholly inconsistent with his sworn evidence in his earlier application in which he sought injunctive relief in aid of arbitration." He added: "At the very least, a party who invokes an arbitration agreement should not subsequently be permitted to disclaim it on factual grounds without some compelling explanation for its change of position." He added: "In this case, the plaintiff offers none." "It is idle to speculate on what he hoped to achieve by this volte-face," said the judge, who commented that the arbitration agreement was "valid and subsisting." "In the circumstances, I am bound to refer to arbitration any disputes between the.
A dentist, Lutfi Hamuda (54), was found guilty of assault causing harm after he spat at his neighbour and fractured his nose following a noise dispute. Hamuda had no previous convictions and claimed the injured party was the aggressor. The court heard that Hamuda told the injured party he was going to kill him and then spat in his face before punching him. The injured party was terrified and believed Hamuda when he said he was going to kill him. He was treated for a fractured nose, which required surgery. Hamuda's defence argued that he had mental distress and had moved away from the area. The judge described the case as 'inherently serious' and adjourned the case until July for the preparation of a probation report.
A Dutch national's application to stand as an independent surety for a man awaiting trial on drugs conspiracy charges has been rejected by the Special Criminal Court. The court heard that Sadaf Piroozram (52) offered to lodge €30,000 for Ali Ghasemi Mazidi (50), who is charged with conspiring to import controlled drugs valued in excess of €13 million between February and March 2024. Presiding Judge Kerida Naidoo found that Ms Piroozram, who resides in Rotterdam, could provide only limited evidence regarding Mr Mazidi's movements during the relevant period and had relied solely on newspaper reports to understand the allegations against him. The judge determined she was unable to adequately assess the risks involved in standing as surety. The court also rejected proposed monitoring measures involving a mobile phone application, finding no realistic basis for gardaí participation. Mr Mazidi, with an address in the Netherlands, and two other men, including one from Enniskillen, remain awaiting trial in connection with the operation. Seven co-accused have previously pleaded guilty and received combined sentences of 70 years.
Lawyers for Andrea Smith, a journalist who claims she suffered multiple rights breaches while working in a key role at 'Woman's Way' publisher Harmonia, have stated that the case concerns the 'exploitation' of women in the media industry. Smith has accused Harmonia Ltd of breaching her rights under the Redundancy Payments Act 1967 and the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, along with seven other unspecified matters, in a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). At a case management hearing, Harmonia denied that Smith was an employee, claiming the tribunal has no jurisdiction. The company's legal representative argued that most of Smith's complaints were filed more than six months after alleged breaches, making them out of time and out of jurisdiction. Smith's barrister, Patricia McKenna BL, emphasized the need for a ruling on Smith's employment status, stating that she was not a freelance journalist and that the case highlights the exploitation of women in the media industry.
A former senior manager at a multinational pharma firm, Tracey Kivlehan, is challenging the termination of her employment in 2024 on the grounds of redundancy at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). Kivlehan, who held a €90,000-a-year role as head of hospitals and speciality brands at Accord Healthcare Ireland Ltd, was informed by the company's managing director, Padraig O'Brien, that her position was at risk just a week after being told that her team in Ireland was 'safe' following the announcement of job cuts. Kivlehan claims that her role was merged with a vacant marketing position to create a new role requiring 'sufficient clinical knowledge' as part of the company's strategic shift towards 'pioneering patented products'. She alleges that her performance was unfairly assessed, leading to a development plan and ultimately her redundancy. O'Brien stated that the company aimed to keep the team calm and that the redundancy process was an informal upskilling initiative. Kivlehan, however, viewed the process as an 'attack' on her abilities. The case has been adjourned until later in the year for further proceedings.
Denis Bowes, a 61-year-old man from Inchicore, Dublin 8, had his conviction dismissed under the Probation Act by the District Court Appeals Court. Bowes was originally convicted in the District Court of using threatening and abusive behaviour contrary to section 6 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994, as well as intoxication in a public place and refusal to give his name and address. He pleaded guilty to these charges and was fined €300. He subsequently lodged an appeal against the severity of his sentence. The court heard that on October 7, 2025, gardai responded to reports of a man shouting on Emmett Road. A garda stated that Bowes was intoxicated and unsteady, and that he racially abused the officer with explicit language while being transported to the station. Defence counsel submitted that Bowes was remorseful, had offered an apology which the garda accepted, and that a conviction would negatively impact his employment. Judge Christopher Callan stated the incident was not acceptable but noted the garda's acceptance of the apology. Consequently, the judge applied the Probation Act, dismissing the conviction on the condition that a fine be paid to the Capuchin Day Centre. The judge warned Bowes that the behaviour should not happen again.
A service station operator in Charlestown, County Mayo, has been ordered to pay €1,250 in compensation to a former employee following a determination by the Workplace Relations Commission. Eve Kilcoyne, who worked as a cash office worker for Macs Place Ltd since 2016, was dismissed in 2024 after the business shifted towards card payments. While the tribunal found the role had become redundant due to declining cash transactions, the dismissal was deemed unfair on procedural grounds. The company failed to provide adequate consideration of alternatives, denied the worker representation rights, and offered no appeals process. Adjudicator Louise Boyle also found the employer in breach of the Terms of Employment (Information) Act 1994 for failing to provide updated employment terms when duties changed. Ms Kilcoyne received €800 compensation for unfair dismissal and €450 for the statutory breach.
The daughter of Noel Kirwan, an innocent man murdered by the Kinahan organised crime group, told cartel lieutenant Sean McGovern that her father would have been offended to have been killed by 'somebody as stupid as you.' Donna Kirwan, whose father was shot dead outside his home in December 2016, addressed McGovern directly in her written statement to the court. She questioned how McGovern thought he would get away with the murder, pointing out that he was linked to the murder by DNA, mobile phones, CCTV, and other evidence. The court heard evidence relating to McGovern's role in the murder of Mr Kirwan and the attempted murder of James Gately. The Kinahans targeted Gately because they believed he was one of the armed attackers at the Regency Hotel. McGovern used a secure messaging service to relay information about Gately's movements. The case was adjourned for the completion of evidence and pleas in mitigation by McGovern's lawyers. Sean McGovern pleaded guilty.
A former Defence Forces captain has failed in a claim against Donegal County Council at the Workplace Relations Commission regarding his starting salary. Daniel McChrystal, who held the rank of captain, took a position as an economic development officer with the council in 2023 and argued he should have progressed up the pay scale based on a decade of military service. He contended his new role was of comparable seniority to his Army commission and that he faced a financial discrepancy by starting at the lowest point of the grade seven administrative officer scale. The council maintained Mr McChrystal was paid according to his contract and that his placement was appropriate. Adjudicator Roger McGrath rejected the complaint under the Payment of Wages Act 1991, finding no illegal wage deductions had occurred and that Mr McChrystal had accepted his rate of pay upon employment.
Christopher Vaughan, a 63-year-old convicted rapist, was jailed for 13 years for sexually abusing a young girl in her home between 1996 and 1997. The victim described Vaughan as a monster and a coward, urging parents to watch for signs of abuse and teach children to speak out. Vaughan exploited the neglect in the victim's home, where her mother was an alcoholic and unable to protect her. He was violent towards the mother, contributing to a climate of fear. The abuse included two rapes and multiple sexual assaults, with Vaughan threatening to harm the mother and siblings. The abuse ended when the children were moved to their father's home. Vaughan denied the offences, but the court found him culpable, noting his prior rape conviction and the severity of the abuse. The victim's impact statement highlighted the lasting trauma and the need for awareness about child abuse. The court emphasized the need for justice and the importance of protecting vulnerable children.
A girl described the moment her mother locked their bedroom door before pushing a kitchen knife through her chest in an attempted murder, stabbing her more than 70 times. The girl, now in foster care, said she no longer loves her mother but doesn't hate her, telling her mother: 'I hope you have a nice time in prison.' The court heard that the mother, a 49-year-old Russian national, had been suffering from depression and had overdosed on medication before the attack. The mother claimed she was 'out of her mind' when she attacked her daughter. The girl described how her mother held a knife over her and told her: 'I'm going to kill you and after will kill myself, as that will be best.' The mother was found to be at risk of self-harm and was admitted to an acute psychiatric hospital. The case was adjourned for further submissions on sentencing.
Thomas Dannevig, a 21-year-old from Donabate, pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary during the Dublin riots in November 2023. He admitted to entering multiple stores, including Foot Locker and Lifestyle Sports, and stealing items. Dannevig claimed he was not involved in the riots and acted on his own, though he was part of a larger group of looters. He was not charged with criminal damage. The court heard that Dannevig had no criminal intent and described his actions as a stupid decision. He was given a suspended prison sentence of two and a half years, 100 hours of community service, and placed under probation for 18 months. Judge Pauline Codd noted that Dannevig's actions, though minor, contributed to significant losses for the retailers. CCTV footage showed Dannevig moving between stores and stealing items. The court was informed that the total losses from the stores were substantial, with significant damage and lost revenue. Dannevig expressed remorse and apologized for his actions. His mother and stepfather supported him in court, and he has started a pre-apprenticeship course.
A 32-year-old man from Ballyconnell, County Cavan, has pleaded guilty to murder and attempted murder before the Central Criminal Court. Danny Heyneman admitted to the murder of Annie Heyneman at a family home in Kilnavart on January 11, 2025, and to attempting to murder Henk Heyneman at the same address on that date. Prosecution senior counsel Gerardine Small indicated that victim impact statements would be presented to the court. The defence counsel requested that education and governors' reports be prepared and indicated an intention to rely on psychiatric evidence during sentencing. Mr Justice Paul McDermott adjourned the case to May 19 for sentencing, at which time the court will hear background evidence, victim impact statements, and the prepared reports.
Sean McGovern, a senior Kinahan cartel member, swore on his baby's life that he would not stop targeting the Hutch gang following the Regency Hotel attack in 2016. Detective Superintendent David Gallagher testified that McGovern directed the Kinahan gang's activities, including tracking James Mago' Gately, who was believed to be involved in the attack. In text exchanges, McGovern vowed to continue targeting the Hutch gang until all members were gone. McGovern pleaded guilty to directing the Kinahan gang's activities in relation to the murder of Christopher Kirwan and the surveillance of James Gately. Kirwan was an innocent man with no connection to either gang, targeted after being photographed at a Hutch family member's funeral. Gately survived two attempted hits, including one where he was shot five times. McGovern's actions were part of a broader campaign of violence and intimidation against the Hutch gang, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the Kinahan and Hutch criminal organisations.