BREAKING: Man and woman charged in connection with Birchwood fire appear in court

Two adults, Cian Stacey and Jessica Dalton have appeared in court, charged in connection with an investigation into a fire at Birch Avenue, Birchwood.

Four people died in the fire, which occurred in the early of hours of Tuesday morning, October 13. 

Cian Stacey (21), of no fixed abode, and Jessica Dalton (31), with an address in Waterford City, have each been charged with one count of criminal damage. They have also each been charged with two counts of Section 4 Assault Causing Serious Harm, against individuals who cannot be named for legal reasons.

They appeared before Judge Andrew Gubbins at 5pm this afternoon at Clonmel District Court.

In relation to Jessica Dalton, she was formally arrested by Detective Sergeant Michael Burke at Waterford Garda Station at 2:19pm today for the purpose of being charged.

She made no reply to the three charges preferred against her.

The woman is a lone parent and is not working, the court heard. Legal aid was granted. She has been remanded in custody to October 20, where she will appear in person at Waterford District Court.

Cian Stacey was formally arrested at Waterford Garda station today at 2:24pm by Detective Sergeant Brian O'Callaghan. He made no reply to the charges.

He has also been remanded in custody to appear in Waterford District Court on October 20.

He will appear by video link.

His solicitor, Mr Ciaran Murphy, said that his client has made an application to be remanded to Cork Prison, due to safety concerns regarding custody in Limerick Prison.

Judge Gubbins said he does not have the jurisdiction to grant such a request, and it is a matter for the Prison Service.

Mr Murphy said his client does currently work, earning around €600 per week. Legal aid was granted.

He also said he suffers from depression.

Judge Gubbins made an application that he receive the necessary psychiatric treatment whilst in custody.