Waterford solicitor in murder case tells court he is concerned about a 'lack of progress'

The solicitor acting for murder-accused Marcus O’Neill has said he is concerned by the “lack of progress” in the case.

Marcus O'Neill (34) of 15 O'Brien Street, Waterford City, is charged with the murder of Gillian Curran in January of this year.

Mr O’Neill has been in custody since then, but no Book of Evidence has been served.

That is despite several appearances before Waterford District Court.

Mr O’Neill appeared last month when the court was told the delay in serving the Book of Evidence was due to the coroner’s report not yet being available.

At a sitting this week before Judge John Cheatle, solicitor Ken Cunningham said it was his understanding that all reports are now available, but the Book of Evidence was not.

“I am concerned about the lack of progress in this case, and I want that on the record,” said Mr Cunningham.

Sergeant John Phelan told the court that they had received the reports necessary, but he wasn’t sure why the Book of Evidence was not available.

He asked that the matter be left stand while he made enquiries, but Judge Cheatle refused.

He remanded the defendant in continuing custody until August 12.