Man fights for life after hurling row attack outside GAA club

A MAN was last night still in critical condition in hospital after being beaten up in a row that began as a minor dispute over hurling.

Kevin Dowling suffered severe head injuries following the attack outside a GAA club in Mullingar.

The 41-year-old was taken to Beaumont Hospital as gardaí hunted two men they suspect were involved in the attack.

Mr Dowling, a married man, had attended the 21st birthday party of a woman at St Loman’s club on Delvin Road in the Co Westmeath town.

The assault occurred between 1.30 and 2am on Sunday in the club car park. The argument began inside the club. Detective Inspector Denis Shields, who is leading the investigation, said a number of witnesses had come forward.

However, others have yet to be interviewed and Det Insp Shields urged them to contact the gardaí.

Club officials are devastated following the incident, one of a number of violent attacks over the weekend that left three people, including Mr Dowling, seriously injured.

Mullingar councillor Michael Dollard said his thoughts were with Mr Dowling, his family and the woman whose birthday celebrations were marred by the incident.

“The club is devastated by what happened.

“This is a club that throws open its doors to everyone in the community, including the most marginalised,” said Mr Dollard. The young woman suffers from cystic fibrosis.

Local sources said the row began as a minor argument over hurling.

Det Insp Shields said a large number of people attended the party.

Meanwhile, a 21-year-old man remains in a critical condition on a life support machine at Cork University Hospital after being struck on the head during a fight on the city’s north side.

The assault happened at around 2am on Sunday at Kilkieran Close in Hollyhill. It is believed the man had been drinking in a local pub before going to a house in the estate.

A second man was also injured during the fight but was later discharged from hospital.

Gardaí at Gurranabraher are investigating and have appealed for witnesses to the incident to contact them.

And a 20-year-old man was in a stable condition in hospital last night after being stabbed in the neck and face during a disturbance in Dublin city centre.

The man was stabbed with a broken bottle during the disturbance in the Merchants Arch area of Temple Bar.

He is being treated in St James’s Hospital.

Gardaí at Pearse Street are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.