Man appears in court accused of setting fire to religious buildings in Donegal village

A man has appeared in court following a series of attacks on religious buildings in County Donegal - close to the border with Northern Ireland.

Ryan McCrabbe appeared before a special sitting of Letterkenny District Court this Thursday evening after he was charged in connection with a number of alleged arson attacks on buildings in St Johnston on Wednesday night.

The 27-year-year-old is charged that on August 28 at the Loyal Orange Hall, Main Street, 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.

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.

Mr McCrabbe is also charged with an offence 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.

All three charges are Contrary to the provisions of Section 2 of the Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

Garda Sergeant Maurice Doyle told the court that there would be an objection to bail. However, solicitor for the accused, Patsy Gallagher, said he was postponing an application for bail at this point.

He said his client, of McCann's Corner, St Johnston, is currently on dialysis at Letterkenny University Hospital and needs medical attention for his ongoing condition.

Mr Gallagher added: "I am rather concerned about his health situation."

He also asked the court to ensure that his client was psychologically or psychiatrically assessed as soon as possible.

However, the solicitor added that his client fully understands the charges and has given instructions to him. Mr Gallagher said he was not putting words in the court's mouth but Judge Ciaran Liddy said "Your words are welcome."

The judge agreed to all requests for medical treatment.

The case was adjourned to Tuesday, September 3 when the defendant is due to appear by videolink at Letterkenny District Court.