A man from Belmullet, County Mayo has failed in a discrimination claim brought before the Workplace Relations Commission following a meeting about employment with the Erris Chamber of Commerce in April 2025. James Monaghan alleged that during a discussion with the chamber's chairman, Brian Bakeberg, he faced inappropriate questions concerning his age, nationality, gender expression and personal habits. He also claimed he was told to cut his hair as a condition of employment. Mr Bakeberg disputed that a formal interview took place, characterising the encounter as a brief informal chat. He explained that questions about age were relevant to eligibility for community employment schemes, while other remarks were made in attempting to establish rapport. Adjudicator Conor Stokes rejected all grounds of the complaint, finding no evidence of discrimination relating to age, nationality or gender expression. The case was heard online on 8 January 2026.
A 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 man from Ballyhaunis, County Mayo has been sentenced to eight years imprisonment at the Central Criminal Court for a sustained campaign of domestic violence against his former partner spanning seven years. Mark White, aged 54, pleaded guilty to six counts of assault causing harm, one count of threatening to kill and one count of sexual assault at their family home between 2010 and 2017. The court heard White subjected his partner to beatings, including an attack when she was 24 weeks pregnant, broke bones in her face and drove a vehicle towards her at speed. He also held a knife to her throat and sexually assaulted her. Some incidents occurred in front of their two children. White left the jurisdiction before gardai could interview him in 2019 and was subsequently arrested at Dublin Airport in November 2024 following a European Arrest Warrant. Mr Justice Paul McDermott imposed a headline sentence of eleven years, reduced to nine years and six months, with the final eighteen months suspended.
A delivery driver, David McCann, was given a 12-month suspended sentence for causing the death of Ann Watters through careless driving. The incident occurred when McCann failed to look where he was going while making a right turn, resulting in a fatal collision. CCTV footage showed McCann was not looking ahead when he turned, and the van cut across the center of the road, hitting Ms. Watters. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the momentary lapse in attention and noted that there was no excessive speed or intoxication involved. McCann cooperated with the investigation, expressed remorse, and remained at the scene. The court recognized the devastation caused to Ms. Watters' family and the impact of the victim impact statements. McCann was disqualified from driving for four years. The victim's husband emphasized the need for changes in driver behavior to prevent further tragedies. David McCann pleaded guilty.
A former public servant, Seanán Ó Coistín, is set to have his employment rights claims heard in Irish later this year. He alleges he was penalised for criticising the standard of Irish at the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. Ó Coistín claims his rights under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, the Protection of Employment (Fixed-Term Work) Act 2003, and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 were breached during his time at the FSAI. He made a protected disclosure about the level of ability in Irish before leaving his position in late 2024. Counsel for the respondent, Paul Gough, stated that Ó Coistín was engaged via a recruitment agency on fixed-term contracts, the last of which expired at the end of the year. Ó Coistín filed a complaint under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, but it is unclear if later complaints in July 2025 were timely. During his hearing, Ó Coistín brought food and drink labelled in Irish and asked the adjudicator if he spoke Irish.
The Special Criminal Court has sentenced Paul Crosby to ten years in prison for facilitating the murder of Keane Mulready-Woods. The court described the killing as "disgraceful and inhuman," noting Crosby delivered the victim to Robbie Lawlor. Co-accused Gerard Cruise, who pleaded guilty to facilitating the murder, received a sentence of seven-and-a-half years, with the final six months suspended for two years. Ged McKenna was sentenced to four years for assisting an offender by attempting to clean the crime scene at his Rathmullan Park home. In a separate matter, Glen Bride, who pleaded guilty to assisting in the movement and disposal of the victim's body parts, was not sentenced today. The court heard he acted under Lawlor's instructions to drive a stolen Volvo V40 containing remains and set it on fire. Bride's sentencing is adjourned to March 9, alongside the sentencing of Stephen Carberry, who also pleaded guilty to impeding the apprehension of the offender. The court accepted Bride was not involved in the murder itself. The matter regarding Bride and Carberry was adjourned and is not yet concluded.
A doctor, Waleed Mustafa, described the home invasion by Dean Hayes, 37, as a "miracle" he wasn't killed. Hayes, with 129 previous convictions, broke into Mustafa's home and stabbed him multiple times. Mustafa, who is originally from Sudan and works as a doctor in University Hospital Limerick, was attacked in his bedroom while watching YouTube. Hayes was armed with a knife and told Mustafa, "you ripped someone," before attacking him. Mustafa managed to escape through the back door but was stabbed in the head and abdomen. The victim described feeling "sheer terror" and said he was "extremely lucky" to be alive. Hayes was arrested the following day and had a history of burglary, theft, and drug-related offences. The court heard that Hayes had previously burgled the victim's neighbour's house. Mustafa has since experienced anxiety, hypertension, and sleep disturbances due to the attack.
Constantin Iosca, 46, was jailed for two years and nine months after being convicted of dishonestly inducing the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) to investigate a fraudulent insurance claim. Iosca had submitted a claim form in 2016, alleging he was injured in a road traffic accident. However, CCTV footage showed him walking unaided and loading a wheelchair into his car, contradicting his claim. Iosca has 19 previous convictions, including theft, road traffic offences, and public order offences. The court heard that Iosca's claim was taken to the High Court, which was an aggravating factor. Judge Patricia Ryan noted that Iosca's medical issues and lack of recent criminal activity were mitigating factors. Iosca was sentenced to three years and six months, with the final nine months suspended on strict conditions for three years post-release.
Stephen Mulvey (34) and Jamie Berry (30), both of Leo Fitzgerald House, Dublin, appeared before the Central Criminal Court on an appeal matter. Both men pleaded guilty to conspiring to murder a 17-year-old boy on Eugene Street, Dublin, between February 23 and 24, 2021. The case originated from a 2023 trial for attempted murder, where Justice Eileen Creedon directed an acquittal due to insufficient evidence. The Director of Public Prosecutions successfully appealed this decision, a ruling upheld by the Supreme Court, which directed a retrial. Before the retrial commenced, the defendants entered guilty pleas to the conspiracy charge. Detective Garda Richard Pender testified that the victim was shot in the neck and upper body, suffering life-threatening injuries. Forensic evidence indicated that gardening gloves found on Berry contained significant firearms residue, which an expert linked to the shooter. Berry failed to account for the gloves. While Berry had six previous convictions, Mulvey had 91. Defence counsel argued the case was circumstantial, noting a lack of direct forensic evidence against Mulvey and the absence of CCTV placing them at the scene. Mr Justice Paul McDermott remanded both men in custody until Tuesday, February 3, for sentencing. The matter was adjourned and is not yet concluded.
A 63‑year‑old man was sentenced to two years' imprisonment for three counts of indecent assault on his niece, who was aged five to six at the time, between February 1988 and December 1990 in her grandmother's home where the accused also lived. The judge, Justice Karen O'Connor, praised the victim for her impact statement, which she said would help other survivors find their voices. The man pleaded not guilty but was convicted by a jury. He has no prior convictions, a long work history and has not been in contact with Gardaí in 35 years, factors the judge cited as mitigating. He will be placed on the sex offenders' register. The sentence was reduced from a headline three years to two years, back‑dated to the date he entered custody. No expression of remorse was noted, and the Probation Service will not be involved. The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court.
A mother who sexually assaulted her daughter and allowed her brother to rape the child when she was six years old has been jailed for 15 years. The woman, in her 50s, was convicted of two charges of sexual assault and one of rape. Her brother, the child's uncle, was also jailed for 15 years for raping the child. The rape occurred after the mother brought her brother into a bedroom where the child was lying on the bed and let him rape her while she watched. The victim, who is now an adult, described the abuse as "incredibly difficult" and said she felt like an outcast in school. The judge described the abuse as "remarkable in its depravity and cruelty" and noted the girl grew up in a household of "severe neglect and physical chastisement." The mother and uncle denied the charges and have expressed no remorse.
Lee O'Brien, a man with 228 previous convictions, was jailed for a robbery at a Dublin petrol station. O'Brien, armed with a knife, demanded money from a staff member, resulting in €350 being stolen. The victim left her job due to the traumatic experience. O'Brien had recently been released from custody and was not on bail at the time of the offence. Judge Orla Crowe noted the deliberate and organized nature of the crime, and imposed a three-year and three-month sentence, with the final six months suspended. O'Brien attempted to detox while in custody and expressed remorse. The court heard that the case was delayed due to the pandemic, and O'Brien had previously been sentenced for similar offences. The judge acknowledged his long-standing drug issues and difficult background, but emphasized the severity of the crime. Lee O'Brien pleaded guilty.
David Cranny damaged a video doorbell outside a south Dublin home, claiming it made him feel 'uncomfortable'. Cranny, who has 29 previous convictions, pleaded guilty to the criminal damage. The residents were left €350 out of pocket and had to move out of fear. Judge Anne Watkin expressed confusion over why the doorbell would have caused Cranny discomfort, noting it only showed people at the doorstep. Cranny later paid €200 in compensation. The judge emphasized the impact of the incident on the residents, who felt unsafe in their own home. Cranny is no longer using drugs and is on an employment scheme. The court ordered him to pay the remaining balance, provide a probation report, and attend restorative justice services before sentencing. The case was adjourned to May 25.
Constantin Iosca was convicted of fraudulently claiming compensation from the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) after a road traffic accident. Iosca falsely reported being injured while cycling and submitted a claim for compensation. Surveillance footage showed him getting in and out of a wheelchair and walking unaided, contradicting his claim of injury. Iosca had no work history and moved to Ireland from Romania in 1997. He has 19 previous convictions, including theft and road traffic offences. The court heard that Iosca's claim was withdrawn after the CCTV evidence was played. Iosca's defense argued that the engineer's report suggested the incident likely occurred as he described. However, the court noted that the jury found him guilty of deception. Iosca was remanded on continuing bail, with sentencing to take place later.
A 42-year-old man originally from Limerick City has pleaded guilty to participation in an organised criminal group and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life in connection with the fatal shooting of Noel Campion on April 26, 2007. Darragh Quinlivan, with an address in Manchester, did not plead guilty to murder. The Central Criminal Court heard that Campion, aged 35, was shot multiple times while travelling as a passenger on a motorcycle near Thomondgate in Limerick City. Quinlivan later fled to the United States, where he made incriminating statements to police and others whilst intoxicated, statements he subsequently characterised as "talk" and sarcasm. He was deported to Ireland in 2008. The case was reviewed as a cold case in 2022. Quinlivan has 24 previous convictions. Justice Paul McDermott remanded him in custody for sentencing on February 9. Victim impact statements were heard from Campion's daughter and widow.
Two men, Ciaran Whelan and Robert Costello, were jailed for a brutal attack on a couple celebrating their anniversary in Dublin City Centre. During the incident, Whelan bit off part of the man's ear and shouted, "Look at how much of his ear I've got." The couple, originally from Mongolia, were attacked while walking home after dinner. The man sustained a third of his ear being separated, requiring a skin graft, while the woman suffered a nasal fracture. Both men pleaded guilty to assault causing harm. Judge Ronan Munro described the attack as "lifelong maiming" and noted the couple had to return to Ireland for court proceedings. Whelan was sentenced to three years and four months, with the final 27 months suspended, while Costello received two years, with the final 16 months suspended. Both men had extensive criminal histories, and Whelan expressed remorse by offering €4,000 to the victims.
Christopher Reynolds, a cocaine dealer, was jailed for four and a half years after hitting a garda during an escape attempt on a stolen motorbike. Reynolds was also jailed for possessing nearly €300,000 worth of cocaine. The incident occurred in May 2025 when Reynolds drove through a narrow gap in a garage forecourt and collided with a garda, causing the officer to suffer a dislocated foot and torn ligaments. Reynolds later apologized and claimed the collision was unintentional. He had nine previous convictions and was on bail for a drugs offence at the time. Judge Orla Crowe noted the seriousness of the endangerment offence and the substantial amount of cocaine involved. Reynolds was sentenced to three years for the drugs offence and two years for the endangerment, with the final six months suspended. The court heard that Reynolds had been under pressure from a drug debt and had since shown signs of rehabilitation. Christopher Reynolds pleaded guilty.
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.
The High Court has formally censured suspended Roscommon solicitor Declan O'Callaghan following an application by the Law Society. The decision stems from an upheld finding of misconduct regarding a 2006 Mayo land deal involving Nirvanna Property Holdings Ltd, a company run by Tom Fleming. While O'Callaghan successfully appealed three other allegations of misconduct, the court upheld one count concerning a conflict of interest. A disciplinary tribunal had previously recommended striking O'Callaghan off the roll of solicitors, a recommendation put on hold pending this appeal. The case involved a land transfer where the vendor claimed they were owed €250,000, a figure O'Callaghan argued referred to the land's valuation rather than a debt. Mr Justice Micheal O'Higgins stated that acting for both the vendor and the purchaser in the same transaction brought the profession into disrepute and represented a serious falling short of professional standards. The judge noted that O'Callaghan should have advised Nirvanna and Fleming to seek independent legal advice. Although O'Callaghan denied impropriety, citing security requirements for a Bank of Ireland loan for a joint venture with the late Fred Preston, the court found his conduct unacceptable. The Law Society nominated a censure and did not seek costs. The court ordered the censure but made no order as to the costs of the appeal.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment on an appeal by an unnamed 43-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman, who are seeking a declaration that their 2019 conviction for the female genital mutilation (FGM) of their daughter was a miscarriage of justice. The couple, who originally pleaded not guilty to FGM and child cruelty charges arising from an incident in September 2016, spent two years in prison before the Court of Appeal quashed their convictions in 2021 due to translation inaccuracies. During the appeal proceedings, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) informed the court that it had dropped the FGM charges. This decision followed a December 2023 examination by Swedish expert Professor Birgitta Essen, who concluded the child had never undergone the procedure. A DPP-retained expert, Professor Cecilia Berger, broadly agreed with these conclusions. Hugh Hartnett SC, representing the father, argued the conviction and imprisonment constituted a miscarriage of justice. Conversely, Brendan Grehan SC, for the DPP, maintained that the original trial proceeded lawfully and that the DPP acted in good faith, though it no longer intends to pursue the charges. The court, presided over by Mr Justice John Edwards with Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy and Ms Justice Isobel Kennedy, stated it had significant matters to consider and reserved its judgment on the bid to declare the quashed conviction a miscarriage of justice.
The Central Bank of Ireland has settled a dispute with a former forensic investigator, Nigar Babayeva, who was dismissed after alleging she faced ill treatment by a manager. The settlement was confirmed at a hearing before the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC), where Babayeva signed documents to withdraw her complaints under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977 and the Protected Disclosures Act 2014. Babayeva was sacked in July 2023 after filing a grievance during her probationary period. Her solicitor, Setanta Landers, stated that HR shared her complaints with the manager, who then terminated her without contractual authority. The manager was not her official supervisor, raising questions about the legitimacy of her dismissal. The Central Bank's legal representative, Niamh McGowan BL, disputed claims that HR shared information with the manager and argued that parts of the case were statute-barred. The tribunal was initially set to hear the case over three sessions, but both parties agreed to a settlement. Adjudicator Orla Jones confirmed the withdrawal of the complaint, and Babayeva signed the form, ending the legal proceedings.
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 pilot accused Aer Lingus of conducting a 'witch hunt' after he raised concerns about a potential data breach involving sensitive personal information on the airline's internal systems. Dale Connolly, a captain with Aer Lingus, filed complaints under the Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and the Payment of Wages Act 1991, alleging he was penalized for whistleblowing. He discovered that personal data, including birth certificates, private emails, and police records, were accessible on the airline's intranet. Connolly reported the issue, but the airline claimed it was a 'settings issue' that had been resolved. Later, he found additional sensitive information, including personal emails and police records, and raised concerns with the Data Protection Commissioner. Connolly felt intimidated after another pilot shared screenshots with the airline's chief technical pilot, leading to a disciplinary meeting and a verbal warning. He claims the warning has hindered his career progression. The airline argued that his concerns were properly addressed and that his actions were not protected under whistleblower laws. The case is ongoing, with the adjudicator having adjourned the matter to a future date.
The owner of a Dublin city head shop caught selling cannabis herb had a "mistaken belief" she wasn't breaking the law, a court has heard. Charlene Flynn (37) was present during the search and told gardai she was the owner of the shop, which was part of a franchise that also operated a premises in Cork city. She was arrested in September 2022 and interviewed. She told gardai that cannabinoid oil and CBD products, which she said were regulated under EU food law, were seized by gardai on the day of the search. Ms Flynn said that the products had a level of THC, the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis, of under 0.2 per cent and said that "to my knowledge the products are within the legal requirements". Flynn of Hollytree Square, Ballymun later pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of drugs for sale or supply at 'Funky Skunk' on June 2, 2022.
Stephen Byrne (44) was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years for aggravated burglary and threatening to kill a Carmelite brother at a retreat centre in Dublin. The incident occurred in April 2024 when Byrne broke into the Avila Carmelite Centre and threatened the 77-year-old brother with bolt cutters. The court heard that Byrne was identified through fingerprints and was arrested while on bail. He admitted to stealing €350 during the incident. Byrne, who has a history of addiction and homelessness, expressed remorse and wrote an apology letter. Judge Orla Crowe noted the severity of the crime and the terror experienced by the victim but considered mitigating factors, including Byrne's plea and his past contributions. The judge suspended the final 12 months of the sentence for two years on strict conditions. Stephen Byrne pleaded guilty.
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 serial robber told a Brinks worker "don't be a hero, I'll f**king kill you" when he grabbed a cash box at a Luas stop, a court has heard. Gary Quinn (32) was on bail when he approached the victim while he was changing out the coins and notes from a ticket machine at Fatima LUAS stop in south Dublin. At the sentencing hearing today in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Garda Mark O'Reilly told Aoife McNickle BL, prosecuting, that the robbery took place shortly after midday on August 7 last year. The victim had already changed the coin box and was pulling out the note box when Quinn came up to him and grabbed it. The victim later told gardai that he initially thought it was a joke and he went to grab the box back. At this point, the robber told him: "Don't be a hero, I'll fucking kill you". The victim wasn't sure if the man was armed or not but was in fear for his life. The unnamed man pleaded guilty.
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.
Workplace Relations Commission adjudicator Brian Dalton ruled in favour of therapist Nora Martin, awarding her €105,567.38 for unfair dismissal and employment rights breaches against Genesis Psychotherapy and Family Therapy Service Ltd. The adjudicator found that Martin's selection for redundancy was "not fair" and "tainted by a personal animus," describing the employer's conduct as "egregious." He determined there was "no evidence supporting any criminal wrongdoing" regarding fraud allegations related to a 2013 fundraiser, nor any case of bullying. Martin was awarded €90,000 for losses arising from unfair dismissal, €6,227 for non-payment of statutory notice, and €9,340.38 in unpaid wages. The adjudicator rejected the respondent's argument that the delay prejudiced the company, noting the employer had originally sought the 2017 adjournment pending a High Court defamation action. That defamation case remains live. Richard Trehy, the charity's finance manager, was a named subject in the proceedings; he was deceased by the time the WRC heard the substance of the complaint. The matter was previously adjourned in 2017 at the company's request, but the WRC proceeded to a final decision on the employment claims.
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.
A 43-year-old man and his wife are appealing to have their convictions for female genital mutilation (FGM) declared a miscarriage of justice. The couple, who pleaded not guilty to FGM and one count of child cruelty on the same day, were initially found guilty of FGM in 2019. Their convictions were subsequently quashed by the Court of Appeal in 2021 due to unfairness regarding translation of testimony. Following a retrial in 2023 where the jury disagreed, the DPP entered a nolle prosequi, deciding not to proceed with a third trial after reviewing new expert evidence. The defence argues that new examinations, including a 2023 assessment by a Swedish expert, prove no FGM occurred, constituting a wrongful conviction. The DPP opposes the application, stating the original case was brought in good faith based on conflicting expert opinions and that the issue was a difference of medical views rather than a factual error. The Court of Appeal must be satisfied that a newly discovered fact demonstrates a wrongful conviction before issuing a certificate. The matter is currently at the appeal stage, with the court scheduled to hear responses from the parents' lawyers tomorrow.
A man who was found guilty of ten breaches of a safety order by sending emails and a text to a woman has had all but one of his convictions dismissed under the probation act on appeal. The injured party told the District Court Appeals Court that the man's actions were a "constant harassment" and that she cannot live a normal, peaceful life. The court was told that the parties are subject to an 'Isaac Wunder' order preventing them from taking further legal proceedings without a judge's leave. The man, who cannot be named to protect the anonymity of the parties involved, was convicted in the District Court of ten counts of contravening a safety order by communicating by electronic means with the injured party, contrary to section 33(1) of the Domestic Violence Act 2018. The charges relate to emails and a text sent to the injured party on dates from January 19 to April 15, 2022.
A trial date has been set for a 31-year-old man accused of murdering his mother, father, and brother at their family home in County Louth last year. Robert O'Connor, from Drumgowna, is charged with the triple murder that occurred on September 29. During proceedings at the Central Criminal Court, defence counsel Michael Bowman SC highlighted the presence of a psychiatric aspect to the case. Mr Justice Paul McDermott scheduled the trial for October 5 and case management for February 18. The accused has been remanded in custody. The court heard that the case involves complex psychological factors, which may influence the trial's proceedings. The matter will be closely monitored as it progresses through the legal system. The trial is expected to be a significant event in the local legal calendar, with attention focused on the accused's mental state and the circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths.
Philip Dwyer, the appellant, appeared before the District Court Appeals Court regarding his conviction for failing to comply with a garda's direction to move on under section 8 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994. Dwyer, who was live-streaming during a riot at the former Crown Paints factory in Coolock, had previously been convicted in the District Court after denying the charge. He received a two-month suspended sentence and a 500 euro fine. On appeal, defence counsel argued that only 17 seconds elapsed between the direction and the arrest, suggesting Dwyer was not given a fair opportunity to comply. The court also heard that the senior garda identified Dwyer as a "right wing agitator online," a description Dwyer alleged was biased. Judge Ronan Munro indicated that he was inclined to dismiss the case under section 1(1) of the Probation of Offenders Act, 1907, leaving Dwyer without a conviction. This proposed disposal is conditional on Dwyer paying 200 euro to the garda benevolent fund within four weeks. The judge expressed concern over the rapidity of the arrest but noted that Dwyer's refusal to answer questions demonstrated non-compliance. The matter was adjourned until February 24 to confirm that the payment has been made.
A man who entered the ladies toilet in a Dublin pub and placed his phone into an occupied cubicle had his conviction for threatening and abusive behaviour replaced with a probation bond on appeal. Martin Snee, 58, was originally sentenced to six weeks in prison and ordered to pay €1,000 in compensation. The injured party, who was in the pub with her husband, was deeply affected by the incident and found it upsetting to walk past the pub. She confronted Snee, who was later arrested. The defence argued that Snee suffers from obsessive compulsive disorder and that his actions were not predatory. The judge commended the injured party for her decisive actions and replaced the prison sentence with a three-year probation bond, requiring Snee to pay €1,000 to the injured party and avoid the pub and the victim. He must also not carry a phone or camera and continue attending psychological support.
A 23-year-old man who was on a suspended sentence for aggravated burglary and assault when he threatened to kill another motorist who overtook him has been sent for a probation report. Sean Maher pleaded guilty to making a threat to kill or cause serious harm. The incident occurred on Convent Road, Blackrock, when Maher revved his engine after being overtaken and threatened the other driver. The injured party did not attend court. The defence said Maher was suffering from depression and ADHD and was changing medication at the time. Judge Anne Watkin questioned whether the medication was being used as an excuse and noted Maher's previous convictions. She adjourned the case for a probation report to assess his medical situation and the likelihood of reoffending.
A woman who was on probation when she slapped a garda, causing him to bleed, has been given a two-month prison sentence. Samantha Maughan pleaded guilty to a public order offence and being intoxicated in a public place. The incident occurred on Marine Road, Dún Laoghaire, when she shouted at members of the public and hit a garda, causing him to bleed. Judge Anne Watkin said the charge was at the higher end of a public order offence and noted Maughan's 28 previous convictions, including 12 public order offences. The defence said she was remorseful and receiving support from her partner. The judge said the incident amounted to an assault on a garda, though no assault charge was brought. Maughan was sentenced to two months in prison with a recognisance set at €500 in the event of an appeal.
Roisin O'Grady, a 45-year-old woman from Monkstown, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dún Laoghaire District Court to charges of assaulting a garda and public order offences. The court heard that on November 13, 2024, Ms O'Grady was found heavily intoxicated at Balally Luas stop. While being transported to Blackrock Garda Station, she allegedly slapped a garda. Prosecutors stated that while in custody, she used abusive language and, after being restrained, kicked a garda in the back of the head. Judge Anne Watkin noted the seriousness of the assault on police officers. Defence counsel Michael O'Blain BL highlighted that Ms O'Grady has a history of alcohol-related offending, with three previous convictions for public intoxication, though she has had no convictions in over ten years. He stated she entered treatment last year, cooperates with probation services, and has no issues with drugs, attributing her difficulties to alcohol misuse. The judge placed Ms O'Grady on a one-year probation bond. The matter was finalised with this disposal.
Roy Hicks (73), an accountant who stole over €90,000 from St George's National School in Balbriggan, received a fully suspended sentence of two years and five months. Hicks admitted to 22 counts of theft between 2019 and 2021, using the stolen funds to keep his accountancy business in Wales afloat. He was arrested in 2023 and suffered a stroke shortly after. The court heard that Hicks had no previous convictions and expressed remorse for his actions. Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged the breach of trust but considered his health issues and the likelihood of him not reoffending. The sentence was suspended on strict conditions, and Hicks was not required to compensate the school due to his inability to do so. Roy Hicks pleaded guilty.
A 35-year-old man who fled the UK while on temporary release from prison and used a false name to claim social protection payments in Ireland has been jailed for two years. Nasser Hussein had residency in the UK and came to Dublin, where he used a false name to secure a social protection card, allowing him to claim €5,913 in payments. The court accepted that he used the false name to cover up his UK status. Hussein has 21 previous convictions, including six for robbery. He was arrested in February 2025 and entered a guilty plea in March 2024. The prosecution said gardaí found documents in his rucksack confirming his true identity. The defence claimed he came to Ireland to find work to support his family in the UK and used the false name after being advised by someone he met. The judge said Hussein had no entitlement to be in Ireland and took money from people who could legitimately claim it.
A man jailed for a hit-and-run that killed a 21-year-old apprentice electrician had his sentence increased by two months after a mobile phone was found in his prison cell. Cameron Cooper, 24, was originally sentenced to five years and three months for the incident, with the final year suspended. He was later found in possession of a mobile phone in prison, leading to a prosecution application. Cooper pleaded guilty to the offence and was fined €300. The court heard that he was driving at twice the speed limit when he struck the victim, killed him instantly, and fled the scene. Cooper falsely reported his car had been stolen to avoid blame. His defence argued that he had been punished sufficiently and was doing well in custody. Judge Ronan Munro reactivated two months of the suspended sentence, emphasizing the need to ensure compliance with conditions. Cameron Cooper was convicted.
A chronic addict who committed a series of burglaries, robberies, and weapon-related offences over six weeks has been jailed for five years. Paul Beatty, 39, pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including burglary, robbery, and producing a weapon. Judge Orla Crowe described the offences as a 'spree of offending' and noted the fear caused to victims. She imposed an eight-year sentence, reduced to six years with the final 12 months suspended. Beatty's defence highlighted his addiction and current drug-free status in custody, expressing a desire to break the cycle of addiction and offending. The court acknowledged his struggles but emphasized the need for protection from future offending. Beatty has a long history of convictions, including for possession of firearms and road traffic offences.
Michael Murray, a 60-year-old cattle farmer from Moneygall, County Offaly, is appealing his conviction for importing €730,000 worth of cannabis. In 2023, a jury at Tullamore Circuit Court found him guilty of importing a controlled drug in excess of €13,000 and having drugs for sale or supply, rejecting his not guilty plea. He was sentenced by Judge Keenan Johnson to ten years in prison, with the final two years suspended. The appeal before the Court of Appeal centers on whether the jury was misled by prosecution evidence suggesting Murray was the specific target of a garda operation. Defence counsel argued that the solicitor failed to recognize the prejudicial nature of this evidence, which was introduced during the trial. State counsel countered that the defence solicitor explicitly agreed to the introduction of this material. The court noted that no requisition was made to the trial judge to object to the evidence, implying an agreement. The presiding judge, Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy, reserved judgment, and the matter was adjourned.
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.
A man who told gardai he was under pressure to pay a debt when he robbed a watch, described as an 'irreplaceable family heirloom', has been jailed for three years. John Byrne pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery on Lord Edward Street, Dublin 2 on September 4, 2023. The injured party had been socialising and was approached from behind by Byrne, who grabbed his wrist. There was a scuffle, during which the injured party was pushed onto the road. Byrne managed to take the victim's watch during the struggle and ran off down Lord Edward Street. The watch was worth about €300, but was a family heirloom and of sentimental value. Byrne was identified from CCTV and his home searched later the following month. After caution, he told gardai the watch was gone and he was under pressure as he owed money. The court was told that Byrne is known to gardai as someone with addiction issues and a history of homelessness.
Megan Gaffey, 28, of Dublin 1, was sentenced at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court after pleading guilty to two counts of robbery committed on May 22 and June 13, 2024, at a shop on the quays in Dublin City Centre. The court heard that Gaffey, who has 165 previous convictions, was on bail and serving a suspended sentence at the time of the offences. In the first incident, she allegedly took €100 after a struggle with the shop manager; in the second, she allegedly threatened a worker with scissors and took €420. Judge Orla Crowe noted the use of scissors and Gaffey's extensive criminal history as aggravating factors, while acknowledging her remorse and efforts to address addiction while in custody. The judge imposed a sentence of four years and six months, backdated to November last when Gaffey pleaded guilty. The final 12 months of the sentence were suspended, and Gaffey was placed under probation supervision for one year to assist with drugs treatment and accommodation. The matter was finalised with this sentencing order.
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 man convicted of sexually abusing three of his siblings has appealed his eight-year sentence as disproportionate. Gerry Harte, aged 72, of Tullynacrunat North, Castleblayney, County Monaghan, pleaded guilty to 15 counts of indecent assault against two younger sisters and a younger brother during the 1970s and 1980s. The Central Criminal Court imposed the sentence in October 2024. At the Court of Appeal, Harte's counsel argued the sentence breached proportionality principles, as the original charges fell under legislation carrying a maximum term of two years. The defence contended that imposing consecutive sentences both within and across victims effectively circumvented the statutory ceiling, resulting in a sentence four times the legal maximum. The Director of Public Prosecutions countered that the trial judge properly considered each victim's circumstances and the persistent nature of the offending. Justice Isobel Kennedy reserved judgment on the appeal.
A 79-year-old man who sexually abused his daughter during her childhood, telling her they had a 'special love' her mother would be jealous of, has been jailed for seven years. Gordon McKenna pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting his daughter at various locations, including the family home in Tallaght, Dublin, on mountain biking trips and at the cinema, between 1977 and 1983. Ms Justice Melanie Greally acknowledged the unquantifiable harm caused to the victim by her father and noted the extreme abuse of trust by a parent who was also her primary carer. She imposed concurrent sentences of 16 months for the earlier offences and a consecutive term of five years and eight months for the later offences. The victim, who waived her right to anonymity, described the abuse as having a profound impact on her sense of self and her ability to form relationships. The judge took into account McKenna's guilty plea, his advanced age, and his medical conditions, but noted the severity of the abuse and its long-term psychological effects on the victim.