Three men who appeared before Cork District Court yesterday charged in connection with a four-hour stand-off with gardaí, during which missiles, iron bars and slash hooks were allegedly produced, were refused bail to attend a family funeral.
A number of gardaí told the court that brothers John Paul O'Driscoll (20), Christy O'Driscoll (25) and their cousin Jason O'Driscoll (25) were involved in a melee at a camp site in Glanmire, Co Cork between 10am and 2pm on Sunday.
A garda incurred serious eye injuries and had to be brought to hospital.
The three men were charged with 20 public order offences, with Christy O'Driscoll facing 10 individual charges including criminal damage of a Garda car, damage of a private car and obstruction of a garda.
Counsel for the defence Diarmuid Kelleher said the incident was sparked by the death of the men's uncle in a car accident. This had led to a "charged emotional situation". He said his clients hoped to attend their uncle's funeral and were willing to abide by curfews and restrictions.
Sgt Edward Geary vehemently opposed bail, saying the defendants were likely to commit more serious offences. The Public Order Unit had had to be called in to assist gardaí. Members were protected with armour, shields and helmets.
Garda Michael O'Brien said he feared for public safety if Mr O'Driscoll was granted bail.
Judge Timothy Lucey said he understood their apprehension, and remanded the men in custody to Cork Prison to appear before Cork District Court on Friday.