Incitement to hatred prosecution under consideration  

A prosecution for incitement to hatred is being considered in relation to a case in Portlaoise, a sitting of Portlaoise District Court was told. 

John McGhee, 45, with an address at Streamstown, Horseleap, Moate, Co Westmeath appeared before the court accused of engaging in threatening or abusive behaviour, failing to comply with the directions of gardai and displaying a threatening or obscene sign at Fitzmaurice Place, Portlaoise on September 9 last. 

Garda Sergeant Jason Hughes said “there may be an investigation in relation to incitement to hatred” in relation to the incident. 

Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said gardai had no directions yet in relation to the three public order charges. 

“I have no comment on it Judge,” the defendant said. 

Judge Andrew Cody said the case could be remanded for a month with consent. 

The defendant replied “that’s ok” adding, “not guilty”.  

Judge Cody said he would expect the investigation to be completed on the next date.

He adjourned the matter to Portlaoise District Court on November 23 for hearing.