This article is from page 12 of the 2013-02-12 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 12 JPG
A MAN was allegedly assaulted with a slash hook during a fracas that broke out at a wedding in Ennis last year, a court has heard.
Three men – Jimmy Doherty (39), John Doherty (47) and Simon Doherty (41) – have been charged with offences arising out of an incident that occurred at Ennis Cathedral, O’Connell Street, on October 11 (2012).
None of the accused were present when the matters came before Ennis District Court on Wednesday.
Solicitor for all three accused, John Casey, told the court that he had received an email from the State advising that his clients stay away from the Courthouse for “security” reasons.
Inspector Tom Kennedy told the court that he had been in contact with the Courts Service regarding the matter. He explained that the accused’s presence had been excused for “operational” reasons.
Jimmy Doherty, with an address at 8 Maiville, Kilrush Road Ennis, and Simon Doherty, with an address at The Cottage, Granard Road, Edgeworthstown, Longford, are both charged with the assault of John McDonagh at the Cathedral on October 11 (2012).
They are also charged with engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace.
John Doherty, with an address at 60 Abbeyville, Ennis, is charged with engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace. John Doherty is also charged with assault causing harm to John McDonagh.
Insp Kennedy said the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) had directed summary disposal of the assault charge against John Doherty.
Insp Kennedy said it would be alleged that Mr Doherty struck Mr McDonagh across the head with a slash hook.
He said Mr McDonagh received 18 stitches as a result of the alleged assault. Insp Kennedy told the court that the incident occurred during a wedding ceremony.
The court heard that it would be alleged that a fracas developed and spilled outside the Cathedral.
Judge Patrick Durcan declined jurisdiction, saying the nature of the alleged injuries and the allegation that a religious service was disrupted were seriously aggravating factors.
The case is to be referred back to the DPP. All three accused were remanded on bail to appear again at Ennis District Court on March 27.