A LEGAL stand-off between a pub owner and his tenant has led to one accusing the other of being unfit to hold a liquor license at Letterkenny District Court.
In court John G Larkin, who claims to be the rightful owner of the Millview Bar and Restaurant at Newmills, just outside Letterkenny, appeared before the court to object to the license being renewed in the name of his tenant David Mackey.
Mr Larkin told Judge Paul Kelly that he objected to the license renewal being granted on the grounds that he was owed rent by his tenant.
However solicitor Patsy Gallagher, representing Mr Mackey, said that such an objection did not have any standing in law. Judge Kelly agreed.
Mr Larkin, representing himself, went on to make a number of allegations surrounding an incident last March when he had moved into the popular bar and restaurant and had changed the locks.
He gave details to Judge Kelly about the stand-off including claims that Gardai had witnessed a number of incidents.
However solicitor for Mr Mackey, Mr Gallagher, dismissed the claims as hearsay and said that a number of civil cases were before other courts in relation to the tenancy agreement.
Judge Kelly however said that if Mr Larkin could produce a statement and evidence to back his claim that Mr Mackey was an unfit person to hold a liquor license, then he would hear those allegations at a later date.
He told Mr Larkin to “specify in writing the precise reasons for the objection including detailed information regarding March 21.”
He said he should also include details of any alleged offences.
Judge Kelly adjourned the case until November 26.