What actually happens when you’re handed the whistle in Irish politics?
On Episode 145 of The Fifth Court, hosts Peter Leonard BL and Mark Tottenham BL travel to Leinster House to sit down with Verona Murphy, Ceann Comhairle — the referee of the Dáil.
This is not a standard political career story.
From leaving home at 14, school at 15…to a period of homelessness… to driving trucks across Europe with ABBA blasting…to running a haulage company…to qualifying in law… to becoming Ceann Comhairle.
Inside this conversation:
Plus:
Decisis Case Round-Up (with thanks to our sponsor)
This episode includes analysis of three recent decisions, brought to you by Charltons Solicitors & Collaborative Practitioners, Georges Street, Dún Laoghaire — specialists in family law, civil litigation, property, wills and probate.
Cases discussed:
1. Student A v Trinity College Dublin
Can you stay anonymous if accused of academic misconduct?
The High Court says: almost never.
2. Hegarty & Others v Revenue Commissioners
Revenue loses — because “tax avoidance” isn’t enough if there’s a real commercial reason.
3. G v G (Child Abduction Case)
A 22-month-old taken from the US to Ireland — and the court orders the child back.
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Because law — like politics — only makes sense when someone explains it properly.
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