Judge rules publican must remain in prison over contempt

A businessman must remain in Mountjoy Prison after a High Court judge found him in contempt of court orders relating to two properties in County Monaghan. Fergal Deery of Drumhillock was committed to prison this week following his arrest by Gardaí. The High Court had issued orders in 2015 restraining him from trespassing on premises in Monaghan Town, formerly operated as a bar and nightclub, which were acquired by Wardglade Limited from a receiver. Mr Justice Allen heard evidence on Thursday that Mr Deery had breached those orders on multiple occasions in 2019. Mr Deery denied the allegations and disputed CCTV evidence placing him at the properties. The judge ruled he should remain imprisoned unless he purges his contempt or obtains legal advice to challenge the March finding against him. Wardglade's counsel confirmed his client sought compliance with court orders rather than Mr Deery's continued incarceration.