Man charged with causing death of Dan O'Reilly

A man has been charged with dangerous driving causing a grandfather’s death in Tallaght, Dublin.

Dan O’Reilly, 57, was allegedly knocked down by a vehicle on the night of August 9th, 2020.

Gardaí arrested and questioned a man shortly afterwards, but he was released pending the preparation of a file for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

John McDonagh, 34, of Manorfield Dale, Blanchardstown, Dublin, was arrested on Monday.

He was later charged with dangerous driving causing the death of Mr O’Reilly, and held pending his appearance before Judge Treasa Kelly at Dublin District Court.

Garda James Ward said, “he made no reply to charge”, and there was no objection to bail with conditions.

He informed the judge that the DPP direction was “to proceed on indictment”, meaning the case will go forward to the Circuit Court. There was also consent to him being sent forward for sentencing on a signed plea.

The garda confirmed Mr McDonagh had surrendered his passport already.

Judge Kelly remanded him on €500 bail to appear again in April to be served with a book of evidence.

She ordered him to sign on three days a week at a Garda station, remain in the jurisdiction, and not apply for alternative travel documents. She warned that he must remain contactable on the phone number he provided.

She told him that the phone must be charged, in credit and answerable at all times.

Defence solicitor Kelly Breen said there was “a lot of sensitivity in relation to the matter”.

Applying for legal aid, the solicitor said Mr McDonagh was a father on social welfare and had to pay rent.

Judge Kelly held he was entitled to it based on the statement of means handed into court.

Mr McDonagh, who did not address the court, has not yet indicated a plea.