Ross Lahive to face trial by jury on charge of harassing Cork librarian

Court heard book of evidence was being sought in the case

Ross Lahive is charged with harassing a librarian at Cork City Library in 2023, arising out of protests about a publication called 'This Book is Gay' appearing on a shelf for teenagers

A judge and jury will hear the case against Ross Lahive of The Irish People’s Party on a charge of harassing a librarian at Cork City Library in 2023 arising out of protests about a publication called This Book is Gay appearing on a shelf for teenagers.

The case had been adjourned until Monday for the defendant to indicate if he would be signing a plea of guilty or contesting the case.

When the case was called, defence solicitor Diarmuid Kelleher said: “We are seeking a book of evidence.” 

On the application of Sergeant Aisling Murphy, Judge Mary Dorgan adjourned the case until February 9, 2026, to allow time for preparation and service of a book of evidence at Cork District Court.

Once the book of evidence is served, it is anticipated the case will be sent forward to Cork Circuit Criminal Court, where a date will be set for a trial by judge and jury.

The prosecution alleged recordings the accused made of his interactions with the librarian were posted on his Facebook page, accompanied by comments describing the book as "grooming", Sergeant Gearóid Davis said previously. 

He alleged each of eight videos was accompanied by comments from parties, allegedly including Ross Lahive, variously describing the librarians as the epitome of evil, diabolical and doing Satan’s work.

46-year-old Ross Lahive, of Church Street, Shandon Street, Cork, faces the single charge that on dates between February 26 and May 6, 2023, within the State he harassed a librarian, contrary to the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.