Lowry appeals for summary ruling in defamation case over Smyth comments

Independent TD for North Tipperary Michael Lowry has appealed to the High Court for a summary ruling in a defamation case over comments by journalist Sam Smyth which, the TD claims, wrongly meant he was a thief.

Mr Smyth has denied words used by him during an appearance on the TV3 show Tonight With Vincent Browne on Jun 24, 2010 meant Mr Lowry was a thief but said he did believe the politician was a liar and tax cheat. He also denied he defamed the politician in a newspaper article.

Noting the proceedings raise important issues under the Defamation Act 2009 not previously ruled upon with implications for other potential litigants, the president of the High Court, Mr Justice Nicholas Kearns, said he would reserve judgment.