Paul Murphy files lawsuit against Heather Humphreys for remarks in RTÉ presidential debate
Paul Murphy has initiated legal action against Heather Humphreys, a presidential candidate from Fine Gael, over claims made during a recent RTÉ debate. The defamation lawsuit was filed at the High Court on a Wednesday following Humphreys’ remarks about Murphy and a past incident involving the former Labour Party leader, Joan Burton.
Details of the Defamation Lawsuit
Murphy’s legal team has claimed that Humphreys accused him of “violent criminal conduct” and suggested that he perpetrated “an act of gender-based violence.” Additionally, she described him as a “misogynist.”
- Date of Lawsuit: Filed on a Wednesday
- Defendant: Heather Humphreys
- Plaintiff: Paul Murphy
- Legal Representation: Michael O’Higgins SC and Róisín Lacey SC
Legal correspondence sent to Humphreys demanded that she retract her statements and issue a formal apology to Murphy. The letter also requested that she cover Murphy’s legal expenses.
Background of the Incident
The comments in question were made during a debate aired on RTÉ Radio, where Humphreys recalled the 2014 Jobstown incident, which had significant media coverage. In a 2017 trial, Murphy was acquitted of false imprisonment charges related to this incident.
Murphy’s legal representatives contended that Humphreys’ statements had a severe impact on his character and reputation. They argued he faced public scorn, including “odium, ridicule, and contempt” as a result of her remarks.
Response from Heather Humphreys
When questioned about withdrawing her statements, Humphreys referred to the Jobstown incident, emphasizing that Murphy was present during the events. She stated, “I remember looking at the videos of that particular incident.”
As this legal matter unfolds, Humphreys has been approached for additional comments on the situation.
