Garda Seeks Restraining Order Against Superior for Harassment and Bullying

A garda and his wife are seeking a civil restraining order against a high-ranking superior officer, citing harassment and bullying under anti-stalking laws.

They filed an application at Dublin District Court, which was heard by Judge Aine Clancy. The proceedings are private, and the parties remain anonymous due to reporting restrictions.

The respondent was represented by Brian Gageby BL, who mentioned a 63-page affidavit. The applicants alleged bullying and harassment, while the senior officer claimed to be acting in the line of duty.

The couple is representing themselves. The garda's wife criticized the respondent's affidavit as misinformation, causing distress to their family. The officer agreed to collect further material from a Garda premises in the future.

Six other officers have been summoned to testify, and the respondent assured to stay away from the couple, their home, children, and pets.

Judge Clancy ordered both parties to submit responding affidavits by July 30, with a hearing scheduled for early October. Civil restraining orders were introduced in the Criminal Justice Act 2023 to protect individuals from violence, threats, stalking, and harassment.