A judge has pleaded ignorance to the existence of the multi-billion euro grossing movie series 'Shrek' after hearing that a taunt about the green ogre sparked a pub row between family members.

At Ennis District Court, a baffled Judge Patrick Durcan asked Insp Tom Kennedy: "Shrek? What does that mean? How do you spell that?"

Judge Durcan made his comment after hearing from accused Rebecca Concannon that her uncle, Valentine Bane said to another man in her group in Crowley's pub in Corofin: "Come on Shrek."

The alleged taunt ignited a row at the pub on September 16, 2012, that resulted in Rebecca Concannon, her sister, Fiona Concannon and Mr Bane's girlfriend, Sharon McGrath facing charges of assault.

Insp Kennedy informed Judge Durcan that Shrek "is a cartoon character".

Judge Durcan had just heard from Rebecca Concannon give evidence that Mr Bane was "gregging" in the pub all night.

Judge Durcan asked Insp Kennedy: "What's 'gregging'? Another example of Corofinese?"

Insp Kennedy said that he had never heard the phrase before and that it must only be used in Corofin.

Fiona Concannon of Newtown, Corofin, was charged with assaulting her next-door neighbours and uncle, Valentine Bane, and his girlfriend Sharon McGrath.

Her sister, Rebecca Concannon of Radharc an tSeideain, Corofin, was charged with assaulting Sharon McGrath and Ms McGrath of Newtown, Corofin, was accused by the State of assaulting Rebecca Concannon.

Both Concannons denied assaulting Ms McGrath, with independent witness and publican, Colm Carey, stating that Fiona Concannon was in the smoking room during the incident.

In his ruling, Judge Durcan said the evidence revealed "the most unseemly, most appalling and gross behaviour occurring in the pub".

He said: "Nobody comes out of this prosecution smelling of roses other than the publican."

Judge Durcan said that he would dismiss the charge against Fiona Concannon for the assault against Mr Bane as no evidence had been offered.

In relation to the outstanding charges, Judge Durcan said that he would also dismiss the remaining assault charges.

However, Judge Durcan said that he would bound over to the peace for two years the two Concannon sisters, Ms McGrath and Mr Bane, who did not face any charge.

Irish Independent