A 44-year-old man has been charged following a Garda investigation in which an explosive device was discovered in a car in County Monaghan.
Simon O'Donovan, of Sperrin Road, Dublin 12, appeared before the Special Criminal Court on Saturday evening. He is accused of possessing explosive substances at St Lawrence Road in Chapelizod, Dublin 10, on July 22.
Detective Sergeant Shane Noone told the court that Mr O'Donovan initially said he did not understand the charge when it was read to him. After it was explained again, he confirmed that he did understand.
Barrister Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law attended the hearing but said he could not represent Mr O'Donovan due to the ongoing strike by criminal legal aid lawyers. Mr O'Donovan told the court he had no legal representation but would have instructed Mr Mackin if legal aid had been available.
Mr O'Donovan expressed a wish to apply for bail, which was opposed by State Solicitor Liam Mulholland. Proceedings were briefly adjourned to allow him to consider his position.
Justice Patrick McGrath explained that the Special Criminal Court does not have the authority to hear bail applications, but said a High Court application could be made. Mr O'Donovan chose to proceed with a High Court bail application, and the Special Criminal Court case was adjourned.
Following a short break, the High Court hearing took place. Mr O'Donovan represented himself, while Mr Mulholland again opposed bail.
Detective Sergeant Noone told the High Court that bail should be refused due to the seriousness of the alleged offence. Mr O'Donovan argued it was unfair to deny him bail, noting that bail had been granted in a related case involving similar charges. He also questioned why that case was heard in the District Court rather than the Special Criminal Court, and said he was willing to comply with any bail conditions.
Justice McGrath refused the application, stating that, given the seriousness of the allegations and the strength of the evidence, no bail conditions would adequately address the State’s concerns. He noted that Mr O'Donovan could make a further bail application at any time.