Supreme Court Ruling Strengthens Public Oversight and Protects Communities from Questionable Mast Decisions
In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of Ireland has sided with Peter and Doreen Thomson, a Kilkenny couple who challenged the approval of a mobile phone mast near their home. With the support of legal counsel Eoin Brady, the Thomsons persevered for several years to hold the planning authorities to account. Initially, their case was dismissed because it was submitted beyond the statutory eight‑week deadline for judicial review. The Supreme Court recognised the broader public interest and allowed the challenge to proceed, setting an important precedent for cases where bias or procedural flaws are alleged in planning decisions.
This ruling sends a strong message to planning authorities and telecom operators that decisions affecting communities are subject to scrutiny, transparency, and accountability. It also provides encouragement to campaigners concerned about the siting of mobile phone masts, 5G infrastructure, and other RF-emitting installations, demonstrating that persistent, principled legal action can influence how these developments are assessed and approved.
The Thomsons’ victory underscores the importance of standing up for proper process and public protection, reinforcing the role of judicial oversight in ensuring that communities are not left vulnerable to decisions made without transparency or fairness.
Eoin Brady says: “The Thomson case clearly illustrates the critical importance of the availability of judicial review. It shows the importance of preserving access to the courts for ordinary people when faced with decision-making by State institutions which break the law.
“Ultimately judicial review is about preserving the rule of law, and ensuring accountability within our institutions, which is key to ensuring cohesion in society. In today’s world, that could not be more important.”
For further information, the full news report can be read on the Irish Examiner website here
Radio Interview with Heroes Peter and Doreen Thompson: “A Huge Relief”
Kilkenny couple celebrate the end of more than four years battling mobile phone mast plans in the High Court
An over four-year journey came to a close last week for Kilkenny couple Peter and Doreen Thompson. The couple had taken a High Court case to prevent a mobile phone mast from being installed near their home in Kells. Their opposition drew widespread local support and attention in the village.
The legal battle continued for more than four years, ending last Monday when the planning body dropped its defense. Speaking on The KCLR Daily, the Thompsons described the outcome as “a huge relief,” reflecting the emotional and lengthy journey they endured.