John Temple (44), of Rathcor, Riverstown, Dundalk, has pleaded guilty to a public order offense stemming from an incident at Carrick Road on October 18, 2024. He admitted to using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behavior in a public place, violating Section 6 of the Public Order Act.
The incident occurred after dundalk’s 2-0 loss to Derry City, which confirmed their relegation to the League of Ireland First Division.
Four other individuals initially summonsed in connection with the event had their cases adjourned, and a prosecution against a sixth person was dropped.
Mr. temple, a barrister, expressed his desire to finalize the case during the court hearing. Judge Stephanie coggans confirmed there were no objections to proceeding.
Sergeant Richie Browne testified that a public disturbance involving multiple individuals associated with Dundalk FC erupted at Oriel Park Football Club at 10:10 pm on October 18th, following the match.
Martin Connolly Public Order Summons Withdrawn
Table of Contents
Martin Connolly, the former Chief Operations Officer of Dundalk FC, had a Section 6 Public Order summons withdrawn following directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). He was represented by solicitor Frank McDonnell. The case was heard on September 11, 2025.
Details of the Case
Martin Connolly (56), of mill Road, Dundalk, was originally facing a Section 6 Public Order summons. However, the DPP directed that the charges be withdrawn, meaning no further legal action will be taken against him regarding this specific incident.
Background on Public Order Summons (Section 6)
A Section 6 Public Order summons in Ireland relates to engaging in threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour with intent to cause fear or provoke a breach of the peace. https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/1935/act22/section6 The DPP’s decision to withdraw the summons suggests that, after reviewing the evidence, they determined there was insufficient basis for a successful prosecution.
Funding Information
This reporting was funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme, supporting public access to information about legal proceedings.
Key Takeaways:
* Martin Connolly, former Dundalk FC COO, had a Public Order summons withdrawn.
* The DPP directed the withdrawal of the charges.
* The case was handled by solicitor Frank McDonnell.