A 27-YEAR-OLD man has appeared in court charged with dangerous driving causing the death of married father of two and GAA coach, Gerard Gunning (47).
At Ennis District Court on Wednesday June 28, Joseph Smyth, of Cathedral Court, Ennis, appeared after being charged with dangerous driving causing the death of Broadford man Gerard Gunning in Meelick on March 24 last year.
Mr Gunning was a passenger in the 13-2 registered vehicle that Mr Smyth was allegedly driving at the time.
In evidence of arrest, charge, and caution, Garda John Marsh said that he met with Mr Smyth by appointment before court at 10.25am and charged Mr Smyth.
Garda Marsh said that Mr Smyth made no reply to the charge.
Sergeant Louis Moloney told Judge Alec Gabbett that directions have been received from the DPP and the case can go forward on indictment to the Circuit Court.
Sgt Moloney said that a Book of Evidence will be required and that bail conditions have been agreed, including the condition that Mr Smyth surrenders his passport and agrees not to apply for a new one.
Solicitor for Mr Smyth, Darach McCarthy, asked, given the severity of the allegation, that legal aid would be granted.
Judge Gabbett granted legal aid to the Limerick-based solicitor to represent Mr Smyth, an apprentice plumber, in the case.
The judge said that the case can be adjourned for a Book of Evidence and remanded Mr Smyth on bail to appear before court on September 20.
Those convicted of dangerous driving causing death in the Circuit Court face prison terms up to 10 years.
Mr Gunning, of Kilbane, Broadford is survived by his wife, Jennifer and sons, Dillon and Adam.
In a tribute posted by Broadford GAA club in the aftermath of Mr Gunning’s death, the club said it mourned the tragic passing of its former underage player and current coach.
The club stated that Mr Gunning played to minor level for Broadford, winning U14 and U15 championships with the club. In later years, he became very involved in underage coaching and training in Broadford and was a very popular coach among the players of the club’s U11 and U13 teams.
