Prisoner granted CTR following Judicial Review proceedings

Our offices have today reached a settlement with the NIPS to facilitate the release of our client Niall Sheerin to see his ill father.

On 3^rd June 2024 our client Mr. Niall Sheerin challenged the NIPS refusal to allow him compassionate temporary release (“CTR”) to see his father who is recovering from major surgery. The matter was then adjourned until 10^th June to allow for important medical evidence to be presented to the NIPS and the court. 

Due to the time-sensitive nature of this matter and impending treatment, a decision in this matter had to be reached by this afternoon at the latest. 

The argument made on behalf of the applicant was that the inference was disproportionate and not in accordance with law. After a full day’s hearing on 10^th June and with the case set to continue on the morning of 11^th June, a settlement was reached with the NIPS to facilitate the client’s compassionate temporary release to see his father.

Our Sean Dunlea of Phoenix Law’s Actions against the Police and Prison Law team said that “We welcome the settlement of this matter today for Mr. Sheerin to be with his family at this difficult time. The result is not only important for Mr Sheerin and his family, but also important for the prison population as a whole. Prison law is an important area of law that is often neglected, we welcome the sensible decision of the prison to agree to our case and to allow release.”

Counsel instructed on behalf of the applicant was Mr. Colm Fegan BL, who was commended by the Mr Justice Rooney for his detailed submissions despite no full judgment being necessary.