Charges against three teenagers in connection with an arson attack in which a young Limerick sister and brother suffered horrific burns could be struck out if the book of evidence in the case is not ready in two weeks.
State solicitor Michael Murray told the local district court yesterday that the book of evidence was "at a fairly advanced stage" but was still not ready.
Two 17-year-olds and one 16-year-old youth are currently before the courts charged with recklessly or intentionally causing serious harm to Millie and Gavin Murray in Pineview Gardens, Moyross, Limerick, on September 10th last.
Six-year-old Millie and her four-year-old brother Gavin are still receiving treatment for the serious burns they suffered when the car they were sitting in was petrol bombed.
Two weeks ago Judge Tom O'Donnell was told that the book of evidence was near completion and that it would be ready by yesterday.
At the time, Judge O'Donnell ordered that a representative from the DPP's office be present in court to give evidence if the book was not ready.
Mr Murray told the judge yesterday, that he did not get the file in the case until November 30th last and that in December an extensive number of books of evidence were returned for trial.
He said five books were completed by his office in the first 10 days of this month alone - three of which had in excess of 100 witness statements.
In order to deal with the massive workload Mr Murray said he had to make certain decisions which meant the book of evidence in the case of the three teenagers was not ready.
"While there is pressure on the system the system is seeking to cope," he said.
Defence solicitor John Devane, whose client has not sought bail since he was charged several months ago, said the system does not run well when it fails one person.
Defence solicitor Ted McCarthy, whose client is on bail, said cases involving young people "should get priority" .
Judge O'Donnell adjourned the case against all three accused until February 6th next and marked the case per emptory against the State, which means the book of evidence will have to be served on that date.