Garda and wife must leave Cavan home after failed appeal

The Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by a serving member of An Garda Síochána and his partner against a High Court order requiring them to vacate a property in Co Cavan. The couple had occupied the house at Lock Eala, Loch Gowna since 2012 under an arrangement with the previous landlord. However, businesswoman Sylvia Fox purchased the property at auction in March 2024 following the developer's insolvency. Ms Fox obtained a High Court injunction in February 2025 after claiming she had been intimidated when seeking vacant possession. The defendants argued their lease agreement with the former owner should remain valid, contesting Ms Fox's registered ownership at that time. Mr Justice Donald Binchy dismissed the appeal, finding Ms Fox now held clear title to the property as the registered owner. A four-week stay on the order was granted. The defendants' legal representatives indicated an intention to seek leave to appeal to the Supreme Court.