Singer sues RTÉ over use of ‘Damo’ in TV series

A singer/songwriter is suing RTÉ and comedian Andy Quirke for alleged copyright infringement over their use of the name , 'Damo' in the forthcoming TV show.

The action was brought in the High Court today by Damien O'Regan who claims he registered the name 'Damo' with the Irish Patents Office several years ago in relation to entertainment services, music and lyrics he provides.

Mr O’Regan told the court that the use of the name Damo is a clear breach of his trademark and said he had not given his consent for its use by Mr Quirke.

The characters, which are both portrayed by actor Quirke, are male parodies of Northside and Southside Dublin stereotypes in which he takes on the twin personas of “skanger” Damo and “posh” Ivor.

Damo and Ivor feature in the first episode of the new comedy series commissioned by RTÉ and scheduled to be aired for the first time next Monday night, September 16th on RTÉ Two.

Mr O’Regan, of Sion Hill, Blackrock, Co Dublin, in the High Court proceedings against both RTÉ and Quirke, claims his registered trademark has been infringed.

He alleges that the infringement will damage the goodwill he has spent many years trying to build up.

Mr Justice Brian McGovern granted lawyers for Mr O’Regan short service to ask the court on Friday for an injunction restraining both Quirke and RTÉ from infringing his trademark.

The application was made on an ex parte basis, where only one side was represented in court.

When the matter returns before the court on Friday, Mr O’Regan’s legal team will ask that the injunction be put in place until the dispute is resolved.

The characters of Damo and Ivor first appeared on the RTÉ programme The Republic of Telly in 2011. The characters have made live performances, have a noted internet presence and have also released a music album.