Michael Lowry files two more High Court cases

Ex-government minister Michael Lowry has lodged papers for two new High Court proceedings connected to the 2011 Moriarty Tribunal, The Irish Times reports.

The TD is launching action against Independent News & Media (INM) over the publication of the Lowry Tapes in 2013, and a case against the State that claims the Tribunal contravened the European Convention on Human Rights.

Mr Lowry will reportedly claim that the duration of the 14-year Tribunal, the level of scrutiny to which he was subjected, and his access to legal fees contravened his human rights.

Mr Lowry is now running four High Court cases connected to the Moriarty Tribunal, including his high-profile challenge against the Tribunal’s decision to award him only 30 per cent of his legal costs on the ground of non-cooperation.

Mr Justice Michael Moriarty has reportedly said no costs rulings will be made in respect of other parties to the Tribunal until Mr Lowry’s court action is over.

The Tribunal is retaining a small legal and administrative staff to deal with the ongoing wind-down and a number of legal proceedings.