FOUR men have been released on bail after being charged in connection with a riot at a County Limerick hotel during an event highlighting suicide awareness among the Traveller community.
Michael Harty (20) of Ballingrane, Askeaton was granted bail on the condition that €4,000 cash was lodged with the court service.
Edward Harty (23) of Lisheen Park, Patrickswell; Larry O’Connor (27) of Holycross Place, Charleville and Jimmy Harty (20) of Lisheen Park were granted bail on charges of violent disorder in Rathkeale on April 14 last.
Limerick District Court heard that around 100 members of the extended Harty family were attending the launch of a CD by members of the family as a fundraiser to highlight suicide awareness.
Gardaí allege that “mayhem” broke out on the dance floor amongst a number of people attending the function in the Rathkeale House Hotel which was organised by West Limerick Resources and the HSE.
Detective Garda Jason Mitchell objected to Michael Harty’s application for bail based on the nature of the offence and he indicated that the incident was the latest in an ongoing feud among the Harty family.
Evidence was given that two Gardaí who were injured in the ensuing “riot”, have been rostered off duty as they recover from their injuries.
Michael Harty said he was not involved in the incident and was only there to hear his uncle play music.
Judge Mary Larkin granted bail subject to a number of strict conditions including a proviso that two thirds of a €6,000 bond be paid in to court to secure his release.
His co-accused, who were previously granted bail, are due in court again on June 16.
