The first person convicted and jailed in Ireland for online posts that jeopardised the anonymity of asylum seekers has had a “priority” appeal date set in 2026. In that hearing, Judge John Hughes noted this was the first prosecution under the relevant law, which carries a possible 12-month prison term. The appeal judge granted legal aid to the unemployed appellant, who did not address the court. International protection applicants have the right to anonymity regarding their refugee application status. The incidents happened on August 22nd and August 24th, 2024, at St John’s House, a migrant accommodation centre on High Street, Tallaght, Dublin 24.

Source: The Irish Times November 07, 2025 17:17 UTC