Michael Flatley Appeals Court Decision on Mansion Costs
- The dancer adn businessman awaits a ruling on the amount he must pay as security for costs in his legal battle over renovations at his County Cork estate,...
- Michael Flatley, known for Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, initiated a €30 million lawsuit concerning works carried out at his mansion, Castlehyde, located in County cork, Ireland.
- On Friday, November 3, 2023, Ms Justice Eileen Roberts of the commercial Court rejected a request from Flatley's legal team for an extension to submit a cost accountant's...
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Michael Flatley’s Security for Costs Hearing Scheduled in €30 Million Mansion Dispute
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The dancer adn businessman awaits a ruling on the amount he must pay as security for costs in his legal battle over renovations at his County Cork estate, Castlehyde.
Background: the Dispute Over Castlehyde
Michael Flatley, known for Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, initiated a €30 million lawsuit concerning works carried out at his mansion, Castlehyde, located in County cork, Ireland. The legal action centers around alleged deficiencies in the construction or renovation work. The opposing side has sought €2.8 million as security for costs, a common practise in Irish courts to ensure the plaintiff can cover the defendant’s legal expenses if the case is unsuccessful.
Recent Court Proceedings and Appeals
On Friday, November 3, 2023, Ms Justice Eileen Roberts of the commercial Court rejected a request from Flatley’s legal team for an extension to submit a cost accountant’s report.The request was made as Flatley disputes the €2.8 million security for costs demanded by the opposing side. Ronnie Hudson BL, counsel for Mr.Flatley, informed the court that his client plans to appeal the August 2023 decision requiring him to provide security for costs before the main action is heard.
In August 2023, Ms Justice Roberts ruled that Flatley is “not at this time ordinarily resident in Ireland but is rather here on a temporary and conditional basis.” This determination was a key factor in the court’s decision to require security for costs. The implication is that Flatley’s ties to Ireland are not strong enough to waive the standard requirement for plaintiffs who are not habitually resident in the country.
Presidential Election bid and its Timing
The court proceedings coincide with Flatley’s brief foray into Irish presidential politics. he announced in early September 2023 that he would not pursue a run in the upcoming presidential election. The timing of this declaration,shortly after the initial security for costs ruling,suggests a possible reassessment of his priorities and resources.
Understanding Security for Costs in Irish Law
security for costs is a discretionary power granted to Irish courts under Section 3 of