The DPP and a garda clashed publicly yesterday over a decision to withdraw an after-hours drinking case against the Dublin nightclub Lillie's Bordello. Ardclose Taverns Ltd, owners of the club, had appealed a district court fine of £400 and an endorsement on its licence arising out of a Garda inspection at 2.15 a.m. on August 27th, 1998.
But yesterday solicitor for the DPP, Mr Matthew Shaw, told the Circuit Court he had no evidence to offer in the case. This meant the fine and endorsement was quashed.
Sgt John Leonard, who had carried out the inspection, then stood up and told Judge Michael White that he had all his witnesses in court to fight the appeal. "I would like to know on whose authority it is being withdrawn," he said.
Mr Shaw said the former sergeant had "no standing" in this case and he [Mr Shaw] was speaking on behalf of the State authorities. Judge White said the reason for the withdrawal was a matter between him and the DPP. "I cannot get involved in a dispute between administrative parties, I will have to allow the appeal".