‘The clock is ticking’: Solicitor reiterates call for Kildare juvenile's case to be heard as soon as possible

A solicitor defending a teenage boy has reiterated his call for his client's case to be dealt with as soon as possible.

Last month, Tim Kennelly said during an in-camera (in private) court session in Naas District Court that he was worried that his client may be tried as an adult soon due to delays.

Mr Kennelly voiced his concerns yet again to substitute Judge Deirdre Gearty during the latest court session, which was heard on Thursday, July 20.

It was also heard that his client had been granted bail from the High Court.

Mr Kennelly told Judge Gearty: "The fact that the DPP (Director of Public Prosecutions) has not given directions yet is outrageous.

"He (referring to his client) could be tried as an adult soon!"

Mr Kennelly continued: "There has been no reason given by the DPP for this delay, both on the last day and today.

"The repercussions of this could be catastrophic for my client, especially when it comes to future employment."

When gardaí told the judge that a new criminal charge was being sought in relation to the teenage defendant, Mr Kennelly put forward the following question: "The gardaí were given the file over a year ago, over an offence from March 2022, but it's only here now?"

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He added: "It is clear that the clock is ticking against my client."

Mr Kennelly asked the judge to dismiss all charges against his client.

He also said: "I have no issue with the gardaí handling of this case, it is the DPP who has failed this young man here today."

Judge Gearty agreed with Mr Kennelly's sentiments and said that the case should be considered as 'a high priority (one).'

She marked the case peremptory against the State, and adjourned the case to next Thursday to allow time for a book of evidence to be produced.

The juvenile will also face sentencing on this date for a number of summons manners, which he submitted guilty pleas to.

When a garda told Judge Gearty that a book of evidence would likely not be ready on this date, she replied: "Talk to the DPP about it."