Posted by Updated / Tuesday, 17 Feb 2026 18:15
By Sorcha Ní Mhonacháin Teresa Mannion
A 48-year-old Galway man who pleaded guilty to making an online threat to kill or cause serious harm to Tánaiste Simon Harris and his family last August has been jailed for four months.
Judge Fiona Lydon said the threats made by Patrick Grealish were of a very serious nature and merited a custodial sentence of eight months.
However, in view of his early plea she suspended the final four months on condition he remains alcohol and intoxicant free and complies with his doctor’s directions.
The court heard he was back taking medication for anxiety and depression and had completed an eight-week course in cognitive behavioral therapy
The court heard some of the victim impact statement by Mr Harris, where he spoke of the trauma of getting a message late at night from a person unknown threatening to harm his wife and family.
Doire an Fhéich District Court in Casla heard that threats against political figures are coming to the fore more frequently and have a harrowing impact on victims.
Defence solicitor Michael Cunningham lodged an appeal to the severity of the sentence.
Who Watches the Watchers? 