Malahide Property Owners Dispute Irish Rail Claims Over Embankment Collapse
The owners of a property in Malahide, County Dublin, are challenging claims made by Iarnród Éireann/Irish Rail and Córas Iompair Éireann (CIÉ) that an outbuilding on their land caused a recent embankment collapse that briefly disrupted DART services. The dispute centers around the construction of an outbuilding on land adjacent to the northern rail line.
Legal Action and Allegations
Irish Rail and CIÉ have sought a High Court injunction against Kieran Brady and Virginia Synnott, alleging that the outbuilding was constructed to a “very significant extent” on land owned by CIÉ, located behind their property at Ashleigh Lawn, Malahide. The Irish Times and BreakingNews.ie reported on the legal proceedings.
Defense and Counterclaims
Brady and Synnott dispute the claims, asserting that the land in question belongs to them and alleging negligence on the part of Irish Rail and CIÉ. Their solicitor informed Irish Rail that they refused to undertake the removal of the outbuilding or the reinstatement of the boundary line. The Independent detailed this refusal.
Court Proceedings and Mediation
Justice Brian Cregan initially granted permission for short service of the proceedings, as the defendants were reportedly out of the jurisdiction in the southern hemisphere. During a court appearance on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, Raymond Delahunt, representing Irish Rail and CIÉ, requested an adjournment to allow for the exchange of affidavits. The judge noted the urgency of the case, given the potential impact on rail services. Dermot Francis Sheehan, representing Brady and Synnott, suggested mediation as a potential resolution. Irish Rail and CIÉ will consider this proposal. The Irish Times and BreakingNews.ie both covered these developments.
Background
The embankment collapse occurred following heavy rainfall and caused a brief disruption to DART services. The case highlights a dispute over land ownership and responsibility for maintaining the stability of the railway embankment.