Dundalk FC owner admits part in row following League of Ireland match at Oriel Park

John Temple (44), Rathcor, Riverstown, Dundalk, pleaded guilty to an offence under Section 6 of the Public Order Act, using or engaging in threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour in a public place, at the Carrick Road venue on October 18, 2024.

The district court heard that an incident occurred after a 2-0 loss to Derry City in the League of Ireland Premier Division, a result which confirmed Dundalk’s relegation to the First Division.

Four other people summonsed had their cases adjourned, while an intended prosecution against a sixth person was withdrawn.

When the case was called Mr Temple, a barrister by occupation, said he was trying to finalise the matter that day if he could.

Judge Stephanie Coggans asked, “Is there any problem with me dealing with this?”

Court presenter Sgt Richie Browne replied that there was “no issue with the State”.

The sergeant went on to give evidence that at 10.10pm on October 18 last at Oriel Park Football Club following a game between Dundalk and Derry City a public disturbance broke out “involving multiple individuals involved with Dundalk FC.”

There was a verbal altercation between the defendant and other named people. This escalated and a “heated exchange” ensued. There were “verbal insults” by the defendant and towards one woman in particular.

All parties were separated.

Sgt Browne continued that Mr Temple, who has no previous convictions, was victim of an alleged assault.

At the conclusion of the prosecution evidence, John Temple, who represented himself, said that he wanted to address the court.

Judge Coggans asked was he sure, adding that there was “nothing previous.”

Mr Temple did not speak.

The case was adjourned until January 14, 2026, for a €500 donation to North Louth Hospice Association; a conviction and €500 fine with three months to pay in default.

The defendant was excused from attending if the money was handed over in advance.

Mr Temple said that there would be no default.

Meanwhile, four other accused have had their cases put back to October 15 for a plea of guilty or date for hearing.

Former joint-owner of the club Andrew Connolly Snr (60) was summonsed for Section 6 Public Order; Andrew Connolly Jnr (25), for two counts of assault and one of Section 6 Public Order; and Ava Connolly (20), for Section 6 Public Order; all with addresses at Tankardsrock, Kilkerley, Dundalk.

Jason McConville (36), Ath Lethan, Racecourse Road, Dundalk, is accused of assault and Section 6 Public Order.

In each case Judge Coggans made a disclosure order including for CCTV.

The four defendants were represented by solicitor Frank McDonnell.

Martin Connolly (56), former Dundalk FC Chief Operations Officer, of Mill Road, Dundalk, had a Section 6 Public Order summons withdrawn on foot of DPP directions.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme

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