Judge to rule on admissibility of evidence in ras attracta cases

A JUDGE today (Friday) set October 5 as the date for a preliminary hearing for cases involving assault charges against six persons in connection with alleged incidents at the Áras Attracta care facility in Swinford, Co. Mayo.

On that date, the question of admissability of extensive video evidence, filmed covertly for RTÉ’s Primetime, will be decided upon by Judge Mary Devins.

Judge Devins will also rule at the preliminary hearing whether the cases against the six defendants should be held separately or together.

Neither of the accused were required to be in Swinford District Court (sitting in Ballina) today when the cases came up for mention.

The six accused are Joan Gill, Dublin Road, Swinford; Patrick McLoughlin, Lalibella, Mayfield, Claremorris; Christina Delaney, Seefin, Lissatava, Hollymount; Kathleen King, Knockshanbally, Straide, Foxford; Joan Walsh, Carrowilkeen, Curry, Co. Sligo; and Anna Ywunsong Botsimbo, Lowpark Avenue, Charlestown.

Today, legal representatives for the accused sought a preliminary hearing to decide whether recorded material could be used in evidence when the cases do come to trial.

Judge Devins directed that legal representatives of the accused should put the reasons for their applications in writing to the court and the State within 10 days.

Solicitors were told they can do so either collectively or separately.

This is to allow for the State to assess whether witnesses will be required to be called for the preliminary hearing.