Enoch Burke, a teacher who has repeatedly defied court orders to stay away from Wilson’s Hospital School in Co Westmeath, has been jailed for a third time in Ireland for contempt.

Burke's incarceration follows his refusal to use a transgender student’s preferred pronouns and his persistent visits to the school, which have been described as “disruptive” to both staff and students.

According to The Telegraph, the evangelical Christian has already spent over 400 days in jail across two previous stints, accumulating fines of around £74,000 for breaching court injunctions.

Despite multiple opportunities to comply with the court’s orders, Burke has continued his defiance, leading to his latest arrest.

Following his recent arrest, Burke told the court: “You will have to answer to God."

He went on to say: "This court is denying me my religious beliefs.”

Burke maintained that his Christian beliefs do not accept transgender identities, claiming that teachers are being pressured to “force transgenderism on students.”

Supporters of Burke captured video footage of his arrest, which was shared on social media. In the video, Burke’s family protests his arrest, asserting that he has “broken no laws.”

The case has been adjourned for review on 11th October by Mr Justice Michael Quinn.

The judge noted that Burke could secure his release at any time by agreeing to comply with the court order, a condition Burke has previously ignored.

Burke was first jailed for 100 days before being released, only to be imprisoned again in September 2023.

Despite being on paid suspension by the school, Burke continued to visit the premises, prompting the injunction against him.