In a recent court decision, Mr Justice Wright of the King’s Bench Division changed the venue for the libel action of Sheehy v Hewson from Dublin to Limerick. The case involves Mr Sheehy, a member of the Rathkeale District Council, seeking damages for an alleged libel published in the Limerick Chronicle on October 15th.

The contents of the alleged libel accused a County Councillor and a District Councillor of incurring penalties for bailing a notorious rowdy, insinuating that they were getting richer in their positions thanks to Mr Gerald Balfour. It was also implied that the plaintiff was involved in criminal activities, as they were described as one of the leaders of a conspiracy that led to incidents of arson and property damage in Askeaton.

The defendant’s legal team argued that the defence to the action was substantially a “justification” for the published statements. They pointed out that a similar action against the Limerick Chronicle resulted in an apology and payment of £5 into court.

In support of the change of venue to Limerick, the defendant submitted an affidavit stating the defendant’s advanced age of close to 80 years, along with a doctor’s statement that travelling to Dublin for the trial would be risky. However, the plaintiff’s legal team contended that a trial in Limerick could result in a disagreement of the jury and expressed their willingness to accept any other venue in Ireland, except Limerick.

Mr Justice Wright, relying on his experience, decided to change the venue to Limerick, assuring that a perfectly fair and impartial trial could be conducted there. The case will now proceed in Limerick, providing a more accessible location for the defendant and ensuring the parties receive a fair hearing in this libel action.

Limerick Echo – Tuesday 21 February 1905