Three people have been remanded in custody in connection with a number of incidents involving feuding traveller families in the town of Ennis.
Tow men and a teenager where brought before Kilrush district court in connection with a number of incidents arising out of an ongoing feud between the McDonagh and Doherty families – including Sunday night’s car ramming at the Maid of Erin Roundabout
Security was high outside the courthouse in Kilrush court as armed members of the Garda Regional Response unit watched on.
Inspector Tom Kennedy told the court that there has been a public outcry in Ennis over what is alleged to have occurred at the Maid of Erin – so much so that Chief Supt. John Kerin went on Clare FM this morning to re-assure the general public that their safety will be protected.
In court, Bernard McDonagh (45) of Ashline, Ennis appeared charged with five alleged offences, including driving a car at Gardaí and others that created a substantial risk of death or serious harm to another.
Mr McDonagh also faces three charges of criminal damage and the assault of John Doherty at the Maid of Erin on October 14th.
Christopher McDonagh (37) of Childers Rd Ennis is charged with possession of an iron bar with intent to cause injury to John Doherty, Martin Doherty and Jimmy Doherty.
A 16-year old – who cannot be named for legal reasons – appeared charged with possession of a hatchet with intent to cause injury to John Doherty, Martin Doherty and Jimmy Doherty.
The court also heard details about an ongoing feud between the Doherty and McDonagh families – and the incident at Ennis Cathedral last Thursday a member of the McDonagh’s family suffered a serious head injury that required 28 staples
Detective Sgt Michael Moloney also outlined how a van belonging to the Dohertys was damaged later than evening.
Regarding Sunday night;s incident at the Maid Of Erin- the court was told that it will be alleged that Mr McDonagh drove his car against traffic into a van carrying the Dohertys – it ‘s alleged he drove. around the roundabout 10 times in a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction, ramming into a car owned by a visitor and twice ramming a Garda car from in front and behind with a Garda sustaining minor injuries.
Solicitor for the three men , Darragh Hassett opposed the state’s application for a remand in custody, stating that Bernard McDonagh was willing to move lock, stock and barrel to Cork.
But Judge Patrick Durcan noted that there is “a deteriorating septic relationship between the two warring tribes” and remanded all three in custody to Ennis District Court tomorrow.
