Enoch Burke Faces Prison Again for Defying Court Order

UPDATE: Enoch Burke is on the brink of another prison sentence as he continues to defy a court order prohibiting him from entering Wilson’s Hospital School in Co. Westmeath. Just recently, the High Court was informed that Burke has been causing “significant ongoing disruption,” including posing for selfies with students, which directly violates the court’s directive.

The school’s board of management has taken a firm stand, warning that if Burke disrupts the upcoming State exams in June or appears on school grounds again this term, they will have no option but to push for his imprisonment. Christopher Woods, chair of the board, stated in a sworn statement that Burke has not only interacted with students but has also been seen signing yearbooks and engaging with them in hallways, calling his actions “wholly inappropriate.”

WHY THIS MATTERS NOW: The ongoing situation raises serious concerns about school safety and the message being sent to students. Woods emphasized that the board recognizes the potential negative impact on students and staff but cannot allow Burke’s blatant disregard for the court’s orders to continue. “Schools try to instill civil responsibility and civil obedience in their students,” Woods noted.

Burke was suspended on paid administrative leave in September 2022 after refusing to address a transitioning student by their chosen name and pronouns, citing his religious beliefs. Despite multiple court orders barring him from the premises, he has persisted in returning, causing disruptions that forced the school to relocate a first-year induction event outdoors due to his presence.

The latest court session occurred just yesterday, with Judge Nessa Cahill receiving sworn statements from the school’s representatives earlier this week. Rosemary Mallon, the barrister for the board, has applied for permission to initiate attachment and committal proceedings against Burke. This decision, according to the school, was not made lightly.

Burke has already spent a total of 513 days in Mountjoy Prison across three different periods since September 2022 for contempt of court. He has faced fines of up to €1,400 per day, with deductions being made from his salary, as the court expressed concern about the financial burden on taxpayers due to his incarceration.

As this tense situation unfolds, the case is set to be revisited in court on Thursday, where further developments are anticipated. The ramifications of Burke’s actions not only affect him but resonate throughout the school community, raising pressing questions about authority, compliance, and the overall safety of students.

Stay tuned for updates on this critical issue as it develops.