Coughlan granted judicial review

Cork City Chairman Tom Coughlan today obtained an order from the High Court for leave to judicially review the FAI Disciplinary Committee’s hearing of December 17.

The order relates to the committee’s refusal of Mr. Coughlan’s request for an adjournment, the committee’s decision to hold the hearing in Mr. Coughlan’s absence and the committee’s finding that Mr. Coughlan had brought the game of football into disrepute and the sanction imposed on him.

As a result of this, certain issues may not be capable of being finalised while the proceedings are pending.

Speaking to the club wedsite, Mr Coughlan said: “I was very disappointed with the decision of the Disciplinary Committee and the manner in which we have been treated. It is unfortunate that we have had to pursue this course of action, however given the prejudicial nature of the CEO’s comments and the subsequent actions of the Disciplinary Committee, we were left with no option. We hope that this issue can be brought to speedy and successful conclusion so that we can concentrate on playing football next season.”

The Football Association of Ireland this evening confirmed its surprise at the Cork City FC statement that Mr Tom Coughlan was granted leave to apply for judicial review, given that Mr Coughlan has to date failed to exhaust all internal appeal procedures open to him.

The FAI is not on notice of any court application and if any order was made, it would been given on an ex parte basis, meaning that it would have been granted on Mr Coughlan’s word only.