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High Court rejects COVID challenge by Gemma O’Doherty and John Waters

Gemma O’Doherty and John Waters have been refused permission to challenge the emergency legisla...
Newstalk
Newstalk

11.54 13 May 2020


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High Court rejects COVID chall...

High Court rejects COVID challenge by Gemma O’Doherty and John Waters

Newstalk
Newstalk

11.54 13 May 2020


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Gemma O’Doherty and John Waters have been refused permission to challenge the emergency legislation that introduced the COVID-19 restrictions.

They wanted the High Court to allow them bring a judicial review, as part of an attempt to have the laws quashed.

In opening their case earlier this month, Mr Waters said Irish citizens were under house arrest, and the restrictions were repugnant to people’s constitutional rights.

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He and Ms O’Doherty also raised question marks over death rates, with Ms O’Doherty claiming the lockdown was based on “fraudulent science”.

She also said it was harming people by denying them their right to sunlight and Vitamin D, and accused Gardaí of harassing people on the streets.

Mr Justice Charles Meenan repeatedly asked her to stop making speeches, and to focus on points of law.

Mr Waters claimed the restriction of our movement was unprecedented in our history, and argued the response to the outbreak was disproportionate.

Previous court appearances attracted a crowd of supporters outside the Four Courts.

Today’s judgement was delivered electronically.

In ruling against their application for a full judicial review, Mr Justice Meenan said their claims were not arguable.

The pair have already indicated their intention to appeal today’s decision.

Reporting by: Frank Greaney

Main image: John Waters and Gemma O’Doherty depart from the Four Courts in this May 6th 2020 file photo. Picture by: Sam Boal/RollingNews.ie

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Appeal COVID-19 Restrictions Gemma O'doherty High Court John Waters

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