LAUGHTER IN COURT AS JUDGE SAYS SHE’S A ‘CULCHIE’

Judge Grainne O’Neill, the youngest member of the judiciary, endeared herself to Tallaght Court this week when she described herself as a ‘culchie’.

Dealing with the case of James Lennon, who appeared before her in custody, she was told by his solicitor, Kevin Tunney, that he could stay in the Cedar House Hostel.  “Where’s that, Mr Tunney, I am a culchie.”  There were some respectful titters of laughter from practitioners, Gardai and the members of the public in the body of the Court.  Mr Tunney replied, “It’s in Dublin 1”.

Lennon, aged 29 with an address of no fixed abode, and Cedar House Hostel, Marlborough Street, Dublin 1, is charged with trespass at an address at Mountain Drive, Churchtown on 22 October 2014.  He is also charged with possessing stolen property:  a motor tax form at the above address, also on 22 October last.

Garda Naoise Lawlor gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution.  She indicated to Judge O’Neill that there was no objection to bail as long as Lennon could provide an address.  Mr Tunney said Lennon had a bed at Back Lane.  Judge O’Neill released Lennon on his own bail and remanded him for a month on condition that he reside at Back Lane Hostel and sign on daily at his local Garda station.