This article is from page 3 of the 2013-05-07 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 3 JPG
GARDAÍ were forced to intervene when members of two Ennis famillies were allegedly involved in an confrontation at Ennis Courthouse on Wednesday.
The alleged incident took place just inside the door of the courthouse shortly before 10.30am. As many as three men were allegedly involved in the incident.
Sittings of Ennis District Court and the Family Law Court meant a large number of people were in the Courthouse at the time. One man required hospital treatment as a result of the alleged assault he occurred.
Two men were arrested, with one appearing before the District Court that afternoon.
Edward McDonagh (33), with an address at 18 Davitt Terrace, Cloughleigh, is charged with assault and engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace.
Inspector Tom Kennedy said the accused appeared before the court following a “fracas” that developed outside the courtroom.
He said the State strongly opposed bail for Mr McDonagh. He said he did not think the conduct that is alleged in a public place could be condoned. “Its happening too often,” he added. Insp Kennedy said it would be alleged that the incident stemmed from a “violent feud” that developed in the town over the last 12 months.
He said the State opposed bail because the “public interest demanded something be done.”
Insp Kennedy added, “How much more are going to have to take, short of them coming into the courtroom and attacking all and sundry, if they can’t restrain themselves from disrespecting this courthouse.”
Defence solicitor Fiona Hehir told the court that her client will say he was spat at and provoked. Detective Garda John Casey, who gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution, said he accepted there may have been an element of provocation.
Judge Durcan said he shared some of Insp Kennedy’s concerns. He said he heard some of the “consternation” outside the courtroom.
Judge Durcan ruled that no issues arose under the Bail Act. He remanded Mr McDonagh in custody with conset to bail. A surety was later approved for the accused and he was released on bail.
Judge Durcan ordered the case be listed for hearing tomorrow (Wednesday).
He said, “I’m not going to have people coming in and treating this Courthouse and the public the way he allegedly did.”