Limerick driver charged over man's death applies for bail to attend daughter's Holy Communion

A LIMERICK man who said he “feels like a murderer” after he was charged with dangerous driving causing the death of a pedestrian applied for 24-hour compassionate bail to attend his daughter’s First Holy Communion.

Limerick District Court heard that the sacrament is a very important day for Danny Connors, aged 30, of Clondrinagh Halting Site, Ennis Road, Limerick city - and his family.

Last November, Mr Connors was charged with eight offences in connection with the death of James Forde, Shannamore Park, Clareview on the Ennis Road shortly before 2pm on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

He made a number of replies to the charges which included, “I wish it was me instead of that poor man”; “my heart almost burst with the fright”; and “I feel like a murderer to be honest”.

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A judge refused a bail application at that November sitting and Mr Connors has been remanded in custody since then.

This month, Mr Connors made a compassionate bail application through his solicitor, Turlough Herbert. Garda Dermot Hallett, on behalf of the State, objected to the application.

Mr Herbert said his client has six children and he would like to attend his daughter’s First Holy Communion which is an important day. He described it as Mr Connors “last hurrah”.

The solicitor said it is accepted that his client has addiction issues and, in particular, tablets.

“He is addressing these problems while in custody. He had virtually secured a place in Cuan Mhuire (prior to the dangerous driving death charge),” said Mr Herbert.

Garda Hallett said: “He (Mr Connors) has an issue with alcohol and drugs. There was an allegation he was seeking help but unfortunately he didn't get help before the tragic incident.”

Mr Herbert said Mr Connors handed himself in to gardai, made admissions, expressed remorse and wants to go forward (to the circuit court) on a signed plea.

Garda Hallett said the driver of the car fled from the scene of the collision, and Mr Connors told gardai he was in Nenagh when they believed he was in a community close to where he normally resides.

“He did ultimately give himself up but the proverbial net was closing in,” said Garda Hallett.

The investigating garda said: “I can’t put it more clearly than this - if this man is given an opportunity for bail he will not turn up.”

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Judge Áine Clancy was also told that the nature of events after a Holy Communion “may lead him (Mr Connors) down other avenues”.

Mr Herbert said he appreciates there are concerns but said  it is a “one-off event”.

“He is deeply interested in his children’s welfare, he is very good to them,” said Mr Herbert.

Judge Clancy said due to the nature of Mr Connors’ addictions she has concerns a First Holy Communion "might be a step too far in his attempts to address his addiction”.

The judge refused the compassionate bail application.