COMEDIAN AL PORTER has entered a full defence in a defamation action taken against him by Independent Senator David Norris, the High Court was told today.

Norris is suing 22-year-old Porter, also known as Alan Kavanagh, and RTÉ, over “a joke” the comedian made about him on RTÉ 2’s New Comedy Awards Show two years ago.

Barrister Peter Mc Kenna told the court today that since seeking summary judgment – a judgment issued in the absence of one party - against Kavanagh after he failed to enter a defence, a defence had been entered last month and he was now seeking only an order for costs on behalf of his client Senator Norris.

Judge Donald Binchy heard that Norris’ solicitor, Jeanne Boyle, had sent Kavanagh several warning letters stating that his client would seek summary judgment against him if no defence was entered.

Barrister Shane Geraghty, counsel for Kavanagh, said the delay in entering the defence was because his client was an emerging comedian who had been out of the country.

Judge Binchy said Norris was entitled to the costs of his application, but he put a stay on them pending the outcome of the overall legal action.

The defamation action continues.

Comments are closed on this article as it involves an ongoing court case. 

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