The High Court in Dublin is set to rule next week on whether Martina Burke and her daughter, Ammi Burke, are in contempt of court, following a disruptive hearing on Wednesday. The case stems from events last Friday, when the pair were removed from the courtroom by court officials and police.
Wednesday’s hearing, which involved three separate matters, saw an enhanced Garda (Irish police) presence both inside and outside the Four Courts complex. Four uniformed officers were stationed at the public entrance, with at least three more monitoring the proceedings within Court Number Two. The public gallery was filled with journalists and observers, including artist Mike O’Donnell.
The initial matter concerned the costs associated with Wilson’s Hospital School’s application to have Enoch Burke, Martina and Ammi’s son, jailed for contempt. The judge reserved his decision on costs to a legal costs adjudicator.
Enoch Burke, currently incarcerated at Mountjoy Prison – where he has been held for over 600 days as of February 25, 2026 – participated in the hearing via video link. He reiterated his claim that he is being punished for his religious beliefs, specifically his refusal to refer to a student as “they.” The court reminded him that his imprisonment relates to trespassing on school grounds, not his views on gender identity.
The second part of the hearing addressed Enoch Burke’s application to have the chair of the disciplinary appeals panel considering his dismissal from Wilson’s Hospital School referred to the Director of Public Prosecution for perjury. Judge Brian Cregan also reserved his decision on this matter.
The central focus of the day was the contempt of court allegations against Martina and Ammi Burke. Martina Burke addressed the court, questioning Judge Cregan’s actions and asserting the injustices faced by her son, whom she described as an “upright, genuine, sincere, righteous, godly, excellent teacher.” She repeatedly referenced the Irish Constitution, at times waving and striking it on the table.
Her son, Isaac Burke, was observed taking detailed notes throughout his mother’s address. He interjected at one point, affirming his mother’s claims. Other family members, including Kezia, Josiah, and Sean Burke, were also present, observing the proceedings.
Martina Burke argued that her son’s imprisonment was a result of his religious beliefs clashing with “the promotion of sodomy and gender ideology.” Judge Cregan attempted to reason with her, pointing out that Enoch Burke’s imprisonment stemmed from trespassing and asking if she could use her influence to persuade him to cease the trespassing, which would lead to his immediate release.
Ammi Burke then spoke, delivering a passionate defense that drew applause from her mother. The exchange became heated, with Martina Burke interrupting, Isaac Burke offering commentary, and Enoch Burke contributing via the video link. Judge Cregan ultimately adjourned the hearing.
As the court adjourned, Josiah Burke shouted, “You won’t win!” The Burke family then left the courthouse. Martina Burke had the final word, telling the judge, “You won’t win.”
The family is scheduled to return to court next week, with the judge’s ruling on the contempt of court allegations expected then.
