Legal proceedings by an Independent News Media senior executive relating to his dismissal by the Irish media company last week were adjourned at the High Court yesterday.

Karl Brophy, director of corporate affairs and content development at INM, was granted three orders by the High Court last Friday preventing INM from taking any further action in his dismissal.

The two sides have since agreed how the action will proceed.

Mr Brophy’s statement of claim must be delivered by May 23rd with INM to deliver its defence by June 6th.

The case was adjourned for mention to June 28th.

The interim orders will continue, without prejudice to INM’s position, until the trial date on October 18th. Six days have been set aside for the hearing.

Mr Justice Roderick Murphy was told by Brian O’Moore SC, for INM, that the action was “somewhat speculative and groundless”.

Costs were reserved.