Cork man ordered not to blockade farm

A man was ordered yesterday not to block entrances to a farm or to intimidate anyone amid allegations there had been blocking of ways and that a man serving legal notice was punched, kicked, chased, and had his beard pulled.

Judge Seán Ó Donnabháin agreed to order Frank Roche of Ballyadeen, Castletownroche, Co Cork, not to block entrances or exits and not to threaten anyone between now and the date listed for the hearing of the dispute in Cork Circuit Court in Fermoy on March 8.

Frank Roche, aged around 50, sought time so he could have legal representation.

Tim Harley, barrister for the plaintiff, David Roche, alleged that the plaintiff’s brother, Frank Roche, had repeatedly blocked entrances to the plaintiff’s farm and trespassed by leaving machinery and animals there.

“He [Frank Roche] has threatened and intimidated the plaintiff, he has wished him harm, he has recently defecated on an entrance to the farm,” said Mr Harley.

“He has contacted [the plaintiff’s] business associates saying he [Frank Roche] is the owner of the land.”

Mr Harley said the person serving legal papers on Frank Roche on Wednesday was kicked, struck, pursued down the road, and had his beard pulled and his glasses knocked off by Frank Roche.

Frank Roche was present in court at the Washington St courthouse in Cork yesterday and denied allegations against him.

He said: “I am an outstanding member of the community. I never interfered with anyone in my life. I am very disappointed these people serve these summonses on me.

“I never set out to fight with my family.”