Judge William Hamill yesterday issued a bench warrant for the arrest of a father who opted to stay in bed rather than accompany his juvenile son to court, as required by law.
The man's son, who is aged 15, is facing approximately 60 charges for offences committed during the last two years. The boy had been before the Dublin Children's Court yesterday to set the date for sentencing.
After inquiring about the whereabouts of the boy's father, Judge Hamill was told the man had decided to stay at home in bed. The judge said this showed the extent of the man's interest in his son.
He said that under the Children's Act, 2001, a parent or guardian of a juvenile defendant must attend the court proceedings.
There had been no indication that the father was sick, but that he had simply stayed in bed when he was supposed to come to court.
The judge issued a bench warrant for the man's arrest to compel him to accompany his son in court on the next date. The case was adjourned and the boy was granted bail until June 28th.