A FORMER member of the Royal Dublin Society claimed in the High Court yesterday that he was expelled at a specially convened meeting which "was out to get" him.
The RDS is seeking an order restraining Mr James Yates, described as an artist of Cill Cais, Old Bawn, Co Dublin, from communicating with its staff or entering its premises. The society claims Mr Yates intimidated and harassed one of its staff, Ms Olivia O'Reilly.
Mr Yates, who is conducting his own defence, denies the society's claims and is counterclaiming for damages, alleging interference with his rights as a society member. He also claims he had been slandered, intimidated and harassed by society members.
Cross examining Mr Kevin Bright, the RDS registrar, Mr Yates said he sent a letter of resignation in 1993 that was not accepted as the society was out to humiliate him. Mr Bright said he had no recollection of the letter.
Mr Yates claimed his "expulsion" was done to protect Ms O'Reilly. Mr Bright said the primary reason for removing Mr Yates's membership was the harassment of Ms O'Reilly. He believed Ms O'Reilly needed protection from Mr Yates.
Mr Yates said Ms O'Reilly was a daughter of a former president of the RDS, Dr Frank O'Reilly, and it had been more of an O'Reilly appreciation society rather than an RDS meeting.
Mr Howard Farrell, an RDS manager, said that at Christmas 1992 Mr Yates was in the driving seat of a van and appeared to be in a deep sleep or coma. Ambulance men roused him. He was parked outside offices where O'Reilly worked.
At the 1994 Horse Show, Mr Farrell said, Mr Yates was at the President's box in the main jumping arena, wearing a T shirt, saying: "A good ride at the RDS will make your hair stand on end". He regarded this as offensive. Mr Yates was asked to leave.
Mr Yates said the writing on the Tshirt had been a response to an RDS advertisement at that time.
The hearing continues today.