Owed money I lent to an individual

The money is gone. You need to accept that and use it as a lesson.

Unfortunately it is a private matter. Whilst you feel you were conned, it would not come close to reaching the threshold of criminality.

Best advice I got years ago is when lending to a friend or a family member, consider accept that money is gone and think of it a bonus if its paid back.

Your only recourse is to issue private legal proceedings and you will need proof of all the funds you gave. - Them accepting they owe you would be good enough. If its 10k+, it might be worth it especially if there is potential to get it back down the line, but then it might be throwing good money after bad.

Think of it this way, its a cheap way of getting someone worthless out of your life. I would write it off as a learning experience. There is probably a hidden drug/drink/gambling addiction in the background

And you still won't get the money back, this person obviously doesn't have a pot to piss in. Again, you need to draw a line under it however painful that may be.

No it wouldn’t. You may be confusing Small Claims with Judge Judy.

I'm sure viper foley would happily buy the debt

Similiar thread on here not so long ago.Same result-you gave money to a "friend" on a promise to repay you.You trusted.But no signed written agreement.You will have to write it off.A warning to all reading about your unfortunate experience

Google "lent money boards.ie"

you could likely sue and win in the district court (if less than 15K) but all you would have is a judgment. If you felt savvy enough you could do it yourself as the forms are all online and the local district court offices are quite helpful. After that you would have a judgment and need to take steps to enforce it. Most likely by seeking an installment order where the debtor has to pay you €X every month or be in breach of a court order. Plenty of hassle and your friend won't talk to you again.

The amount you loaned, is the cost of the lesson.

My old man aways hit me with never loan money you can't afford to lose.

This person whatever their reasons, was able to get money from you, maybe they're an alcoholic or gambler or doing drugs… whatever it was, they leaned on you, you folded & then you were an easy mark for them.

That's NOT your fault. You're obviously a generous and sympathetic individual. You accepted their reasons and provided for them. you should feel good about that & yourself. Do not feel bad, do not feel conned or hard done by. You're a good friend and anyone would be lucky to have you in their friend group.

A solicitor would possibly help, but if they're not paying back voluntarily, it's highly unlikely they'll do it under legal threat.