An unemployed man facing jail for alleged contempt of court orders arising from protests at the Glen of the Downs was given leave by the High Court yesterday to challenge the State's refusal to grant him legal aid.
Mr Colm Mac Eochaidh, for Mr Michael Hammond, said the High Court had made an order in October restraining persons from trespassing on lands owned by Wicklow County Council. On January 24th, the council secured an order for the attachment of Mr Hammond and others, requiring them to show why they should not be committed to prison for contempt.
Mr Hammond, of North Great Georges Street, Dublin, appeared in court on February 4th on the attachment order. His lawyer indicated he wished to show cause why he should not be committed and also wished to deny contempt. The court decided to determine the issue of whether there was contempt and the matter was adjourned.
Mr Mac Eochaidh said Mr Hammond had sought legal aid from the Attorney General and Civil Legal Aid Board but had been refused by both. Contempt of court was an offence punishable by imprisonment. The right to legal advice in such proceedings was a constitutional right.