No directions over Tramore church attack - solicitor calls for strike out
Holy Cross Church, Tramore. Photo: Joe Evans.
The State Proesecutor has yet to issue instructions in the case of man accused of stabbing a woman in a Waterford church, nine weeks on.
Niall Cummins (36), of The Willows, Clarinwood, Tramore, appeared this week at Waterford District Court before Judge Kevin Staunton.
Cummins has been in custody since July 21 after being arrested in connection with the stabbing of a woman on the altar of the Holy Cross Church in Tramore. The woman, aged in her 50's, was taken to University Hospital Waterford for the treatment of non-life threatening injuries at the time.
On July 22, Cummins was charged at Waterford District Court before Judge John Cheatle. Since being in custody, he has declined to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.
On Tuesday, September 22, he appeared in court via video link, represented by solicitor Ken Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham noted that Cummins has been in custody for "over 42 days" with no directive from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Mr. Cunningham stated: "The DPP have not directed a trial on indictment" and broached the possibility of striking out the matter.
Sergeant Michael Daly confirmed that the DPP "haven't forwarded directions". The matter will be reheard on October 6.
