Enoch Burke to remain in prison, saying he will return to the school

Enoch Burke is to remain in prison following his refusal to obey a recent court order which bans him from trespassing at his former school in Westmeath.

This morning (May 5), Enoch Burke was given the opportunity to remedy his previous contempt of court, which could have allowed him to leave prison.

Since he was first suspended, he has been in a legal dispute with Wilson’s Hospital School, claiming that it was against his right to express his religious beliefs.

To date, Burke has spent over 650 days in prison, violating court orders telling him not to trespass on the school grounds.

Appearing via video link this morning, he was asked by Justice Brian Cregan if he would trespass at the school if he were released from prison.

Burke replied: “I have faithfully attended at my workplace for eight years; that is not trespassing.”

Mr Cregan said: “It is clear, Mr Burke, you don't want to purge your contempt.

Justice Cregan added that Enoch Burke could be released from prison if he committed to staying clear of the school.