Hugh Emmett O’Neill (better know as Emmett O’Neill), a teacher originally from Northern Ireland alleged to have sexually assaulted a colleague at the workplace and at his residence may face a complete prohibition from the profession.
Over a span of twelve months in Liverpool, Emmett O’Neill is accused of having groped and commented on a former colleague’s breasts. A panel from the teacher regulating agency (TRA) was informed that Mr. Emmett O’Neill is accused of engaging in sexual contact with a female colleague during the same timeframe, despite her requests for him to cease such behaviour.
Mr. Emmett O’Neill, 45, stated that he disagreed with the allegations made against him during his employment at a special school in Knowsley. A three-member panel is currently assessing whether his activities constitute inappropriate professional behaviour and behaviour that discredits the profession.
The hearing was told how Mr Emmett O’Neill is reported to have made a number of comments about the female staff member, including saying she “looked busty” and was a “sexy b***h.” It was also alleged the teacher, 45, felt her breasts on multiple occasions on school grounds and “coerced” her into having sex with him.
Mr Emmett O’Neill said the pair had sex consensually and regarding the “very serious allegation” of a non-consensual sexual assault, he said: “I don’t know why she said it, but I didn’t do it.” The teacher added how he had provided 19 character witnesses “from the most senior pillars of society” and the alleged behaviour was not in his nature.
During the first day of the hearing, Colleague A said Mr Emmett O’Neill called her and said they should “meet up and have that kiss” before going on to ask about her bra size, saying he had noticed her breasts. The woman said he was “relentless” in calling and described it as “pestering.”
In response, Mr Emmett O’Neill said: “It sounds a bit ludicrous to be honest, it’s not how I would conduct myself or behave.” Asked why she didn’t report this behaviour, Colleague A said: “I honestly thought I would lose my job if I said anything. I didn’t think I’d be believed and they’d get rid of me and I’d have no job or money coming in.”
Asked about his feelings towards Colleague A now, Mr Emmett O’Neill, who was visibly emotional, said: “I just want us both to get through this. Sometimes I’m bewildered why I’m sat here.
“I maintain I entered into a consensual relationship throughout. I got the help I need through counselling, the National Education Union and friends.
“I hope Colleague A finds peace and can move on with her life.” He added how he refuted the suggestion his actions caused her “so much trauma” and wished her well and “nothing but happiness.”
Mr Emmett O’Neill said: “I want to put this behind us and get back to the job I was taken away from.”. Although at the time of the hearing he was working as a HGV driver.
Panel members are expected to return a decision later today, which could lead to Mr Emmett O’Neill being prevented from teaching permanently if the claims against him are found proven. He has been in the Republic of Ireland joining via video link for the duration of the hearing.
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