THE INTERNATIONAL governing body of tug of war clubs is seeking an order striking out High Court proceedings in which an Irish club alleges it was wrongly disciplined over refusing to compete in an international competition.
The action against the Tug of War International Federation, with headquarters in Lucerne, Switzerland, arises out of a decision by St Patrick’s tug of war club, Hackballscross, Co Louth, not to pull on grounds that a rival team was wearing alleged “illegal” running shoes during the semi-finals of the world indoor championships in 2006.
The Irish club was fined and suspended for a period by the Irish Tug of War Association from taking part in competitions. St Patrick’s claims the international federation demanded tougher sanctions from the Irish association, leading to its effective exclusion from competing in world games.
The sanctions led to proceedings being brought by Nicola Conway, O’Hanlon Park, Dundalk, Co Louth, a member of St Patrick’s, against the international federation and two of its officials: honorary life president Co Koren, and its president Cathal McKeever. Proceedings were also taken against the Irish association but that action has settled.
Yesterday, the international federation applied to have the proceedings struck out on a number of grounds, including being frivolous and vexatious. It also contends the court lacks jurisdiction.
Ms Conway opposed the motion.
Ms Justice Mary Laffoy has reserved her decision.