Two teenagers appeared in court in Limerick last night, charged in connection with an arson attack in which a young brother and sister suffered serious burns while in a parked car last weekend.
Millie Murray, aged six, and four-year-old Gavin remain in a serious condition at Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin, Dublin, following last Sunday's incident in Pineview Gardens, Moyross, Limerick.
Two 17-year-old youths, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared in court last night, each charged with intentionally or recklessly causing serious harm to both children contrary to section 4 of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Persons Act, 1987.
Judge Tom O'Donnell reminded those present that it was a special sitting of the Children's Court and ordered that the identities be protected under the provisions of the Children's Act. Judge O'Donnell ordered that no names, addresses or photographs identifying the teenagers be used.
Det Garda Pat O'Callaghan gave evidence of arresting and charging the first named accused, who made no response to either charge and who remained silent with his head bowed throughout the brief hearing.
His solicitor, Ted McCarthy, asked that his client be granted free legal aid.He reserved his position on bail and asked that the youth be given appropriate medical attention while in custody.
John Devane, who represented the second named accused, said he would apply for bail next week and requested the same medical treatment for his client.
He feared for his psychological wellbeing given the serious nature of the charges. His client did not speak. Judge O'Donnell remanded both youths in custody to St Patrick's Institute in Dublin until next Tuesday in Limerick.
- A third youth (16) has been arrested as part of the investigation into the arson attack. He was detained last night at Mayorstone Garda station under section 30 of the Offences against the State Act.