Staff told to hand over devices in O’Brien case

A judge has ordered various executives and staff of the Dublin-based Red Flag consulting firm being sued by billionaire businessman Denis O’Brien over alleged conspiracy to damage him to hand over for “forensic imaging” any personal computers and devices used by them for work purposes.

The order allows digital forensic experts photograph material on the equipment pending a ruling whether that material can be inspected for use in Mr O’Brien’s action against Red Flag and various executives and staff, alleging defamation and conspiracy.

Mr Justice Colm Mac Eochaidh said the order would balance the rights to privacy of the individuals and Mr O’Brien’s right to establish the “fingerprints” on a dossier of material sent to him anonymously. Mr O’Brien claims material is largely unfavourable to him and he believes Red Flag was involved in putting it together for an unnamed client.