Play About Gerry Hutch Sparks Debate Ahead of Dublin By-Election

A new play centered around the life of Gerard Hutch, known as ‘The Monk,’ has opened in Dublin, igniting controversy and raising concerns about its potential impact on victims of organized crime. The play, which dramatizes Hutch’s recent trial at the Special Criminal Court, comes as he prepares to contest the upcoming Dublin Central by-election.

Concerns from Former Garda Commissioner

Pat Leahy, a former assistant garda commissioner, expressed his unease about the play’s portrayal of Hutch, particularly given his attempt to enter politics. “Anybody who has been touched by gangland crime is going to look at this, and you’d have to expect that you’re going to be looking at this and feel like that they’re being exploited, and their grief has been exploited,” Leahy stated, according to RTÉ. He emphasized that criminals exploit vulnerabilities and that there is “no such thing as a good criminal.”

Leahy drew parallels to the case of Martin Cahill, another figure who garnered a controversial public image, noting that Hutch is similarly being viewed by some as a “Robin Hood figure.” He stressed the importance of ensuring that those seeking public office are of the “right calibre” and focused on community needs.

Playwright Defends Provocative Work

The play is written, produced, and performed by Rex Ryan, son of the late RTÉ broadcaster Gerry Ryan. Ryan defended the work, stating it is intended to be provocative and spark conversation, not to glamorize crime. “It is provocative and it does spark conversations, but it’s certainly not my intention to be disingenuous or to hurt anybody,” Ryan said. He described the play as a snapshot of Hutch’s life and a reflection of Irish society over the decades.

Ryan explained that the play originated from his shock at the Dublin gang feud and that Hutch became the “vehicle to tell what I think is a Dublin story.” He added that the play is “controversial” and “hopeful,” and that Hutch himself found it “challenging” and “touching.”

Hutch Confirms Election Bid

During a publicity event for the play, Gerard Hutch confirmed his intention to run in the Dublin Central by-election, scheduled for May. He previously came close to winning a seat in the last general election. The Special Criminal Court has identified Hutch as the head of the Hutch Organized Crime Group (HOCG) and recognized him as the ‘figurehead’ of the organization, according to The Irish Mail on Sunday. The court also concluded he was in control of three AK-47 rifles.

The Special Criminal Court’s Findings

The Special Criminal Court’s assessment of Hutch’s role in organized crime is central to the controversy surrounding the play and his political ambitions. As The Irish Times reports, the court clearly stated Hutch’s position within organized crime, leaving little doubt about his involvement.

The play runs at the Ambassador Theatre in Dublin until Saturday.