Wolfe Tones singer Brian Warfield resolves RTÉ Liveline defamation action

High Court reporters

Wolfe Tones lead vocalist Brian Warfield has settled a defamation action against RTÉ brought over comments made by broadcaster Joe Duffy during a Liveline segment three years ago.

Mr Warfield and then-Liveline host Joe Duffy clashed during an on-air August 15th, 2023 discussion about the Wolfe Tones song, Celtic Symphony.

Mr Warfield initiated defamation proceedings against RTÉ, complaining of comments made by Joe Duffy during the broadcast.

On Monday, Niall Buckley, counsel for Mr Warfield instructed by Marie Hans of WP Tweed solicitors, told Mr Justice Anthony Barr the case had been resolved.

Counsel said the proceedings could be struck out on consent, with no order relating to legal costs.

The judge made the order as sought.

Speaking outside court, Mr Warfield said the terms of his agreement with RTÉ were confidential. “I can’t divulge anything ... regarding the settlement. We are sworn to silence,” he said.

He said the case had come to a “friendly conclusion”.

In a statement, WP Tweed said the proceedings had concluded “to [ Mr Warfield's ] satisfaction”, adding, “[h]e has been totally vindicated and his reputation restored”.

The firm said the settlement follows a decision of Coimisiún na Meán, which upheld Mr Warfield’s complaint concerning the Liveline segment, and “found reasons to suspect” breaches of the broadcaster’s Code of Fairness, Objectivity & Impartiality.

“The Coimisiún found that the presenter had advanced a partisan position and moderated the discussion in a manner that did not afford Mr Warfield a fair opportunity to respond. It further found that Mr Duffy’s approach and conduct went beyond what could be considered fair treatment,” the firm said.

RTÉ was contacted for comment.

The band’s career began in Dublin in 1964, and gained popularity with hits including Celtic Symphony, Irish Eyes, Grace, Streets of New York and Let The People Sing.

The band has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years. In September 2023, they drew the biggest crowd in Electric Picnic’s Electric Arena in the festival’s 19-year history.