Man in custody accused of discharging firearm twice in Offaly

A MAN who appeared in custody before Tullamore District Court accused of firearms offences in the town will apply for bail, Judge Susan Fay heard.

Daniel Kavanagh, 9 Cloncollig, Tullamore (48), is alleged to have discharged a firearm, being reckless as to whether any person was injured or not, at 37 Kearney Drive, Tullamore on February 28 and June 4 last.

On both occasions he is also charged with possession of a firearms with intent to endanger life or cause serious injury to property.

Detective Garda Tom Dunne said that when Mr Kavanagh was arrested and cautioned in relation to the June 4 charges he made no reply.

When Judge Fay enquired of the accused if a solicitor had been contacted a woman sitting in the body of the court, who said she was Mr Kavanagh's wife, replied that she had contacted Aonghus McCarthy but was told he was “on strike”.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns told the court the DPP had directed that Mr Kavanagh be tried by indictment.

Sergeant Kearns explained that meant a book of evidence would be required and the matter will be sent forward to the Circuit Court, with the option of a signed plea.

Mr Kavanagh said that while he had not yet applied for bail he did wish to do so.

Detective Garda Dunne said there would be an objection to bail being granted and Sergeant Kearns said a bail pack had been prepared.

When the bail pack containing the relevant documents was handed to the wife of the accused man Judge Fay asked: “How are you all with the reading and writing?”

The judge said there was “no shame” in the court. Mr Kavanagh's wife and a number of other women who were present with her indicated that they could read and write.

Judge Fay remanded Mr Kavanagh in custody for a week to August 13 next for a book of evidence and bail application and asked that the solicitor Mr McCarthy be informed.

(Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme)