Legal aid extended to cover engineer’s report for woman charged in connection with fatal collision in Louth
Legal aid for a 56-year-old woman charged in connection with a fatal traffic collision has been extended for an engineer’s report on her behalf.
Martina Meehan, Carrickdale Hotel, Carrickarnon, Dundalk, is accused of dangerous driving causing the death of Arthur Daly (64) at the R166, Annagassan, Dunleer, on July 14, 2024.
Members of Mr Daly’s family were present for a brief hearing at Dundalk Circuit Court on Monday.
Barrister Donough McDonough said that an engineer will require 12 weeks to provide a forensic report.
Prosecuting counsel Steven Dixon replied that the State was anxious for the case to proceed and suggested it be listed on the first day of the October sittings.
Judge Dara Hayes acceded to the defence application and extended legal aid for the engineer’s report.
He said it was his intention to get the matter on for trial in June but he also had to ensure a proper opportunity for the defence to prepare.
Judge Hayes continued he was sure Mr Daly’s family were anxious for a trial as soon as possible. Unfortunately, that couldn’t be done this side of summer.
The next date for trials after June is the first week of October, he added, before remanding Ms Meehan on the same bail terms to October 5.
The defendant was previously granted legal aid for a solicitor, barrister and senior counsel when the case was sent forward from the district court.
Bail had been set in her own bond of €200 with an independent surety of €2,000 cash lodged. She was to reside at the Carrickdale Hotel until moving to an address in Newry, Co. Down, as part of the bail conditions.