A Dublin Lotto syndicate which hit the Jackpot two weeks ago was involved in High Court proceedings yesterday when it was claimed that one of the two members had collected the windfall without informing the other.
Barman Mr Michael Curry of Parkmuire, Saggart, did not become aware of the win for three days, the court was told. He won an order directing a widow, Ms Rosanna (otherwise Anne) Seery, to disclose the whereabouts of the funds.
Mr Justice O'Neill was told Mr Curry and Ms Seery were the only members of a syndicate which won a half share in the Lotto draw of January 22nd last.
Mr Breffni Gordon stated that Ms Seery picked up their winnings, £500,000, without informing Mr Curry.
Mr Gordon said Mr Curry and Ms Seery had been "the best of friends" for about 25 years. Mr Curry worked in Jacobs bar in Saggart, which Ms Seery frequented. Two years ago they started to do the Lotto between them every week. Twice they won small amounts.
On the night of January 22nd last Ms Seery did not mention to him that they had hit the Jackpot. She gave the winning ticket to Mr Brian Jacob, the owner of the public house, to be put in the safe.
On the following Monday she gave Mr Curry £200.
Subsequently she offered him £10,000. He asked for a quarter share.
Mr Gordon alleged Ms Seery had completed a false claim form stating she was the sole owner of the ticket.
Mr Curry sought a court order preventing her giving the money away.
Mr Justice O'Neill also directed Ms Seery to disclose all her assets.
The case was adjourned until next Monday.