Enoch Burke can halt disciplinary hearing if he stays away from school

A High Court judge has determined that teacher Enoch Burke holds a strong case against disciplinary proceedings initiated by Wilson's Hospital School in County Westmeath, but has declined to halt those proceedings unless Burke complies with an existing court order to remain away from the school premises. Mr Justice Conor Dignam acknowledged that grounds existed to prevent the school from proceeding with a disciplinary meeting scheduled for Mullingar, yet ruled that Burke's ongoing refusal to observe the earlier order tipped the balance against granting an injunction. The judge indicated willingness to grant the injunction if Burke agrees to respect the suspension order issued in September, requiring him to stay away from school while receiving pay. Burke contests disciplinary action arising from allegations of gross misconduct related to his conduct at a school function and his objections to the school's policy regarding a transitioning student. He maintains the disciplinary process breaches fair procedure and his constitutional rights. The school opposes his application. The matter was listed for further hearing.