Man in court over Smithfield gun

A man has been remanded in custody charged with possessing a handgun in connection with a shooting during Dublin’s Smithfield…

A man has been remanded in custody charged with possessing a handgun in connection with a shooting during Dublin’s Smithfield horse fair last weekend.

A number of shots were fired at about 11.30am on Sunday at the monthly market.

Two men were shot in the hip and leg and were taken to the Mater hospital, but their injuries were described as not life-threatening. Another male was injured from a slash hook.

A home-made shotgun was recovered at the scene and a handgun was later found in the Oliver Bond area in the south inner city.

A man was arrested under the provisions of Section 30 Offences against the State Act 1939 on Sunday evening and detained at the Bridewell Garda station.

He was brought to Dublin District Court this morning to be charged.

Judge Miriam Malone heard that John Keniry (41), with an address at Rainsford Avenue, Thomas Court, in Dublin 8 is accused of unlawful possession of a Webley .22 calibre revolver, at Oliver Bond Street, on March 6th.

Det Michael Donlon, of the Bridewell Garda station, told Judge Malone that the defendant replied "just sorry for taking it off him" after he was charged and cautioned.

Det Gda Donlon objected to bail citing the seriousness of the charge and concerns that he would not turn up to court.

Defence solicitor Michael Hanahoe said his client was seeking bail. He asked the court to note his reply to the charge and that gardai were satisfied with the address Mr Keniry gave them. He also told the judge that the defendant's pregnant partner was in court.

Judge Malone noted the garda's evidence and the defence submissions but refused bail.

Mr Keniry was remanded in custody to appear again at Cloverhill District Court on March 16th.

The judge said legal aid would be granted on the basis that Mr Keniry is in custody but subject to a statement of means being furnished.

Dressed in black trousers and a light red shirt, Mr Keniry remained silent during his brief court appearance.