Limerick woman is charged over collision with garda
A WOMAN was charged ON Tuesday in Newcastle West Court in relation to a road traffic collision that left a senior Limerick garda - Inspector Niall Flood - with life-changing injuries.
Garda Errol Flynn gave evidence of arresting, charging and cautioning Niamh McDonnell, aged 29, of Gortskagh, Castlemahon prior to the court sitting.
Ms McDonnell is charged with a total of eight offences - dangerous driving causing serious injury; dangerous driving; drink driving; drug driving; no insurance; failing to stop following the incident; failing to offer assistance and failing to keep vehicle at or near the occurrence.
The alleged offences are said to have occurred at Clonmore, Dromcollogher on June 30, 2022. While no evidence was given in court, it is alleged that McDonnell was the driver of a vehicle and that Insp Flood was cycling at the time.
Garda Flynn said: “She made no reply to any of the charges”.
Inspector Gearoid Thompson, who represented the State, said there was no objection to bail subject to two conditions - Ms MsDonnell must sign on once a week in Newcastle West garda station and not to apply for any travel documents.
These were accepted by Joseph McMahon BL, who represented Ms McDonnell. Judge Carol Anne Coolican granted bail on the defendant’s own bond of €100.
Insp Thompson said the directions from the DPP are for trial on indictment which means the case is to be heard in the circuit court. The garda inspector applied for an adjournment until next March to allow for the preparation of a book of evidence.
“It is quite a complex matter,” said Insp Thompson.
Mr McMahon made an application for free legal aid on behalf of his client.
“The lady is working but only part-time,” said Mr McMahon. Judge Coolican granted legal aid. Ms McDonnell did not speak during the brief procedural hearing apart from confirming her signature on a court document.
The case was adjourned until next March.