Former Ireland rugby star Shane Horgan sued for repossession of house

Former Ireland rugby international Shane Horgan faces a repossession lawsuit over his property in Dublin, valued at €675,000. Pepper Finance (Ireland) initiated the legal action, seeking to recover the house located on John Dillon Street, Christchurch, Dublin 8, due to alleged arrears on the mortgage.

Horgan, 48, who also played for Leinster and the British and Irish Lions before retiring in 2012, was absent from court when the case was called. Legal counsel for Pepper Finance informed the court registrar that attempts to serve Horgan with the possession proceedings via registered post were unsuccessful, with the letter being returned marked "not called for."

According to the civil bill, Pepper Finance acquired a €675,000 loan originally granted to Horgan in June 2006 by Irish Life and Permanent TSB. The outstanding debt has now reportedly climbed to €684,664. The bank alleges Horgan defaulted on mortgage payments, specifically citing arrears of €8,889 as part of the total debt.

Despite attempts to contact Horgan, including calls in court and over a tannoy, neither he nor any legal representative appeared. The court registrar directed the proceedings be adjourned for three months, allowing Pepper Finance's solicitors to attempt to formally serve Horgan with the legal documents. Until served, Horgan would not be formally aware of the bank's attempt to repossess his property.