THREE GIRLS, aged between 14 and 16 years, were sent for trial yesterday from the District Court to the Circuit Criminal Court on charges of causing criminal damage of almost €3 million to Hope Castle, Castleblayney, Co Monaghan, as a result of an arson attack on November 4th last.
The castle, owned by Monaghan County Council and leased as a hotel to Christopher Haren, was destroyed by the fire.
Judge Sean MacBride was informed at a sitting of the District Court in Carrickmacross yesterday by John Murray, a witness for the county council, that the building was insured.
Judge MacBride said there appeared to be some uncertainty about cover for some €200,000 worth of antiques and Mr Haren’s personal effects. In view of the seriousness of the losses, he was sending the accused forward for trial at the Circuit Criminal Court in Monaghan on May 31st next.