Man arrested in relation to ballina stabbing incident

A MAN has been arrested in relation to a stabbing incident that occurred in Ballina on August 17 last.

John McDonagh of 58 St. Patrick's Estate, Ballina, was brought before Westport District Court (sitting in Castlebar) today, where Detective Sergeant Gerry Lee informed Judge Mary Devins that the accused had been charged yesterday. His reply to the charge was 'No comment', the court heard.

Inspector Mandy Gaynor applied to have McDonagh remanded in custody to Harristown court tomorrow for DPP directions.

An application for bail by the accused, who was represented by Mr. John Gordon, solicitor, was objected to by the State on a number of grounds, including the nature of the charge (assault), the possibility of further charges, the chance that he would interfere with witnesses, the fact he may be a flight risk, and the belief that he would re-offend.

The accused has denied the charge and he told the court that he would be pleading not guilty to it. Mr. Gordon added: “He's still an innocent man in the eyes of the law and he's entitled to his liberty until the time of the trial.”

Judge Devins refused the application for bail and remanded McDonagh in custody to Harristown court tomorrow, noting the possibility of further charges.