Mediation sought for Portlaoise neighbours 

A Judge asked for a mediator to work with neighbours to resolve a dispute in Laois. 

Marie Murphy, 45, of 43 Bianconi Way, Ridge Road, Portlaoise and Trisha Gorman, 45, Sophie Gorman, 26, and Noel Kiernan, 42, all with an address at 44 Bianconi Way, Ridge Road, Portlaoise are each accused of assault and affray at Bianconi Way in Portlaoise on October 25, 2021. 

Appearing on behalf of the first defendant, Solicitor Josphine Fitzpatrick said her client would engage with mediators. 

“There is an allegation of affray and then there are allegations of various assaults,” she explained. 

She said the matter concerned her client and three other people before the court. 

David Nugent BL said his client is willing to engage in mediation. 

Ms Fitzpatrick said she believed all parties were willing to engage in mediation. 

“The only way I see it happening is through the Gardai organising it,” she added. 

Judge Andrew Cody said there needed to be mediation in the case and he didn’t want to hear any excuses. 

Judge Cody adjourned the matter to April 13 in order that mediation can take place.