Dublin: A High Court decision on whether to jail controversial teacher Enoch Burke for continued contempt of court is expected next week. Burke, who has previously served prison time for defying court orders in his dispute with Wilson’s Hospital School in Westmeath, has continued to ignore legal rulings despite being fined over €200,000.
Justice Brian Cregan told the court that a decision would be made by Tuesday, following a review by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) before November 30. The judge noted that Burke and three members of his family could face further contempt proceedings — including fines or imprisonment — for their disruptive conduct during an earlier hearing.
The school’s management board informed the court that Burke continues to enter the school premises despite a court order prohibiting him from doing so. Security officers were hired to prevent his entry, but management reported difficulties as several security personnel withdrew from duty due to online harassment. The school said it currently spends €1,113.45 (including VAT) daily on security.
While the board stated it does not wish for Burke or his family to be jailed or have their assets seized, it emphasised that it simply wants Burke to stop attending the school in violation of court orders.
The dispute began when Burke refused to address a transgender student by their preferred pronouns, arguing that doing so contradicted his religious beliefs that gender is solely male or female. Following this, the school suspended him and obtained a court injunction to keep him off school grounds.
Despite these rulings, Burke repeatedly returned to the school, leading to his imprisonment on several occasions. The courts have clarified that his detentions were due to persistent breaches of court orders, not his religious views.
Legal and financial penalties continue to mount, with enforcement actions reportedly underway to recover fines from Burke’s salary and bank accounts.
Justice Cregan also criticised the conduct of Isaac, Martina, and Ammi, stating their behaviour during the November 5 hearing was “beyond the pale.” Gardaí had to remove them from the courtroom after multiple disruptions.
During yesterday’s proceedings, no member of the Burke family or their legal representative attended. Barrister Rosemary Malone, representing the school’s management, told the court that Burke arrives at the school at 10 a.m. daily, continuing to disregard court instructions.
Malone said Burke’s actions were causing significant disruption to school operations and negatively affecting students. She also confirmed that a €15,000 compensation payment previously ordered against Burke for assault remains unpaid.
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