Circuit Court to hear Clare dangerous driving causing death case

A MAN charged in connection with a fatal road crash that claimed the life of a Clare woman has been returned for trial to Ennis circuit criminal court. 

At Ennis District Court, a book of evidence was served on Damien McNamara (38).

McNamara, with an address at Lissatunna, Ennistymon, is charged with dangerous driving causing the death of Stephanie Fitzpatrick, at Cloonaveigh, Lahinch Road, near Ennistymon on February 19, 2022. 

Ms Fitzpatrick, who was from Lisdoonvarna, was a front seat passenger in the car when the collision occurred. 

In court, Garda Joseph Ryan gave evidence of serving a copy of the book of evidence on solicitor Daragh Hassett for his client, Damien McNamara. 

Sergeant Louis Moloney told the court the director of public prosecutions (DPP) has directed trial on indictment in the circuit criminal court.

Sergeant Moloney said he was applying to have the matter returned to the next sessions of Ennis Circuit Criminal Court.

McNamara was remanded on bail to appear again in court at a later date. 

Mr Hassett said legal aid had previously been granted and he was seeking legal aid going forward for two counsel. 

Mr Hassett said a charge such as the one facing his client would typically involve a second counsel in the circuit court. 

Judge Mary Larkin granted the legal aid application. 

Judge Larkin delivered the alibi warning, telling the accused that if his defence in any way relied on an alibi then details should be forwarded to the office of the State Solicitor for County Clare. 

Judge Larkin made the order returning McNamara for trial to the next sessions of Ennis Circuit Criminal Court.

At McNamara’s first court appearance in October, Sergeant David O’Connor of Ennistymon garda station gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution. 

The court heard the accused made no reply to the single charge when it was put to him.