Further remand for man over attempted arson attacks in St Johnston

A man charged in connection with a series of attacks on religious buildings in St Johnston has been further remanded in custody.

Ryan McCrabbe faces charged in relation to attempted arson attacks on St Baithin's Church, the Loyal Orange Hall and the Masonic Hall in St Johnston on August 28.

McCrabbe was hauled before a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court on Thursday and remanded in custody. Gardai had objected to bail on that occasion.

The 27-year-old, with an address at McCann's Corner, St Johnston, was due to appear by video link from Castlerea Prison at Tuesday's sitting of the court.

Mr Patsy Gallagher, solicitor for McCrabbe, told the court that his client was undergoing a medal procedure at Roscommon hospital.

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham adjourned the matter to a later date for directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Mr Gallagher told the court that he was reserving his position regarding a bail application. He said that a bail application may be made at the next court date.

McCrabbe is charged that on August 28 at the Loyal Orange Hall, Main Street, St Johnston, he did commit arson in that he did without lawful excuse damage by fire property, to wit, Loyal Orange Hall, Main Street, St Johnston, belonging to another intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged.

He is also charged that on the same date at St Baithins Church, St Johnston did commit arson in that he did without lawful excuse damage by fire property, to wit, St Baithins Church, St Johnston, belonging to another intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged.

McCrabbe is also charged that on the same date at St Johnston Masonic Hall, Church Lane, St Johnston, did commit arson in that he did without lawful excuse damage by fire property, to wit, Royal Orange Hall, Main Street, St Johnston, belonging to another intending to damage such property or being reckless as to whether such property would be damaged.

The charges are contrary to Section 2 of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

A medical report has been prepared on behalf of McCrabbe. The court has been told that McCrabbe is currently on dialysis and Mr Gallagher has said that he is “rather concerned” about his client's health.

Mr Gallagher said that his client fully understands the charges and has given instructions in the matter.