The Court of Criminal Appeal yesterday overturned the conviction of a Limerick man for manslaughter in the city five years ago. A re-trial was ordered. Mr Andrew Brennan (30), St Mary's Park, Limerick, was jailed for 10 years at the Central Criminal Court in July 1999 after being found guilty of the manslaughter of father-of-eight Sean Colbert (53), Limerick, on August 9th 1996.
Mr Brennan had not received a separate trial although one was ordered for him as the trial progressed.
Mr Justice Hardiman said defence counsel sought separate trials at the beginning and was refused. During the trial, the judge changed his mind, and ordered separate trials. The court granted bail to Mr Brennan in his own surety of £1,000 and a surety of £19,500 by his mother. He is to report daily to Shannon Garda station and reside at a Co Clare address.