Ruth Purcell Healy to stand trial for murder at Central Criminal Court

The mother of six-year-old Matthew Healy appeared in person at Waterford District Court on Thursday morning, June 20.

Ruth Purcell Healy (37) of Bishops Field, Williamstown, Waterford, attended court as the Book of Evidence was presented to Judge Kevin Staunton.

Ms Purcell Healy is charged with the murder of her son Matthew. 

Matthew Healy was found unresponsive around midnight on February 9, 2024, near Rathmoylan Cove, Dunmore East, and was later pronounced dead at University Hospital Waterford.

In court, Solicitor Ken Cunningham made no application for bail as Ms Purcell Healy is receiving treatment at the Central Mental Hospital.

However, an application for bail could still be made in the future. 

There was one amendment made to the charge sheet, following a request that the night in question be amended to show both dates inclusive. This amendment was approved by Judge Staunton.

Judge Staunton confirmed that the case will go forward to the current sittings of the Central Criminal Court.

Judge Staunton gave Ms Purcell Healy an alibi warning, reminding her that she had 14 days to give notice of an alibi to the State.

He also issued a Section 56 order pertaining to evidence.