by Ronan Judge
The State has been granted further time to serve the book of evidence on a man accused of murdering another man in Lisdoonvarna.
Thomas Lorigan (32), of no fixed abode, appeared at Ennis district court via video link from prison where he has been on remand since being charged last month. Lorigan is charged with the murder of pensioner John O’Neill at St Brendan’s Road, Lisdoonvarna on a date unknown between January 6 and January 7, 2022. The charge against Lorigan is contrary to Common Law.
During the brief hearing, the accused spoke only to confirm that he could see and hear the court proceedings. Defence solicitor Daragh Hassett said his client has been in custody since being charged with murder last month. He continued, “There has been no application for bail. It is impossible in this court (district) and there has been no application elsewhere.” A bail application in a case where a person is charged with murder can only be considered by the high court.
Mr Hassett said his client may seek to apply to the high court for bail. Sergeant Aiden Lonergan told the court he was seeking the maximum four week remand in custody to allow for service of the book of evidence. Mr Hassett said there was no objection to the State’s application.
Judge Mary Larkin remanded Lorigan in custody to appear again in court on March 9.
