Bail varied for man after his partner gives testimony before Kildare court

IN-CAMERA

A Kildare court defendant had his bail 'reluctantly' varied after his partner gave testimony in front of a judge.

Judge Desmond Zaidan made the decision in the case, which was heard in-camera (in private) at Naas District Court on the morning of Thursday, July 25 last.

The man had been accused of committing two breaches of a protection order, which his partner had previously taken out against him.

For the first instance, the court was told by gardaí that he allegedly kiicked the front door of his partner's home.

For the second instance, the court was told that he allegedly rang her phone a number of times, and also followed her to her home.

It was heard that the couple have no children together.

Commenting on the case, Judge Zaidan said: "It's not nice alleged behaviour."

Turning to the alleged injured party, who was sworn in, he asked her: "Are you here of your own free will?"

"Yes," she replied.

When the case was adjourned to the afternoon, a bail application was scheduled to take place.

Returing to the stand, the woman told Judge Zaidan: "I don't think prison is good for him; he needs rehab."

The judge responded: "I've given him chances before... but I hear you, and I will take it onboard."

He also told her: "Go get help... if this alleged behaviour is true, then no one should have to put up with it."

Although Garda Sergeant David Hanrahan expressed concern given the fact that the defendant breached the protection order on two separate occasions, the judge said that he would 'relunctantly' vary bail for the man.

However, Judge Zaidan added: "It wouldn't surprise me if he is in before me on September 1... I hope I'm wrong."

The judge warned the man not to commit any more breaches, to which the man replied: "I'll be on my best behaviour."

It was heard that a €500 cash lodgement was to be made, in addition to €500 for an independent surety.

Judge Zaidan noted that the other bail conditions, as well as the conditions of the protection order, remain in place.

He adjourned the case to a later date, and marked it for progress.

Judge Zaidan also suggested to the woman to go to a domestic violence support service.

If you have been affected by this article, you can find resources to help you by contacting Women's Aid at 1800 341 900 or emailing helpline@womensaid.ie, or Men's Aid by ringing 01 554 3811 or emailing hello@mensaid.ie.

Additionally, you can find resources to help you by emailing Samaritans Ireland at jo@samaritans.ie, or by ringing 116 123.