An attempt by the Criminal Assets Bureau to obtain court orders to have an equestrian centre and other property owned by convicted drug dealer John Gilligan and members of his family handed over to the State has been adjourned for two weeks.
The President of the High Court, Mr Justice Finnegan, was told today that a motion is being brought by Gilligan - who is serving a 20-year jail sentence for drugs offences - to have the proceedings against him struck out.
Proceedings opposing the CAB's application have already been issued by his wife, Ms Geraldine Gilligan and their son Darren, and daughter, Tracey.
The order being sought by CAB is in respect of a number of properties, including Jessbrook Equestrian Centre and lands at Mucklon, Enfield, Co Kildare, and two houses in Lucan, Dublin.
CAB was granted a High Court order in December 1996 preventing the Gilligans disposing or otherwise disposing of the properties.
Following the passing of a seven-year period which must elapse before assets which have been "frozen" under court order may be sold, CAB claims it is now entitled to an order for the disposal of the properties under section 4 of the Proceeds of Crime Act.
Mr Justice Finnegan granted an application on behalf of Darren and Tracey Gilligan for legal aid in relation to the proceedings.