A young man from Ballinlough accused of murdering his mother and injuring his father last November appeared in Cork District Court on Tuesday, but the book of evidence was not served on him for the third time due to the ongoing solicitors' strike.
David Gallagher appeared by video link from prison. Judge David Waters asked whether he had spoken to his solicitor, to which Gallagher replied: "He says he is on strike." When asked about his willingness to have the book of evidence served in the absence of legal representation, the accused said his solicitor had advised him to wait until he could be present.
Sergeant John Dineen confirmed that the book of evidence was ready to be served, and Detective Garda Neil Walsh was in court with the documents available for service. However, given the defendant's position, Judge Waters remanded Gallagher in custody until August 10, marking the fourth occasion the case has been listed for service of the book of evidence.
Gallagher faces three charges arising from an incident at the family home on Shrewsbury Downs, Ballinlough, on November 17, 2025:
The murder of his mother, Stella Gallagher, contrary to common law.
The assault of his father, Brian Gallagher, causing him harm, contrary to Section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.
Criminal damage to the family home, specifically a front window and window frame, contrary to the Criminal Damage Act.
The case will return to court on August 10 for the fourth attempt at serving the book of evidence.