Farmer bailed after oath to stay away from mart

A man accused of stabbing a garda during a standoff at a mart has been released on bail after giving a sworn undertaking to stay away from the premises and its staff.

Patrick Fouhy, 62, with an address at Ballydaw, Castlelyons, Co Cork, had been previously remanded in custody in Cork Prison for 16 days. He gave the assurance at Fermoy District Court yesterday, having refused to do so on two previous court appearances in relation to the matter.

Mr Fouhy is charged with assault causing harm toGarda Denis Ryan at Cork Mart, Corrin, near Fermoy on Mar 21. The assault is alleged to have happened after Mr Fouhy, a farmer, tried to block the mart exit over a personal dispute.

He was brought from Cork Prison to Fermoy District Court yesterday for a bail hearing, wearing a red t-shirt bearing the slogan ‘winner alright’ over a striped shirt, and was not legally represented.

Inspector Tony O’Sullivan told Judge Brian Sheridan that gardaí had no objection to him being released on bail as long as he gave certain undertakings to stay away from the mart.

Mr Fouhy said giving such an undertaking would put him out of work.

“That’s my place of work. If I do this, you’re putting me on the dole. But if I have to do it, I will do it under duress,” he said.

Insp O’Sullivan said the conditions should apply only for the duration of the case and added: “There are numerous other marts in Ireland and these conditions shouldn’t put him out of work.” The judge asked Mr Fouhy to consider his position carefully.

Mr Fouhy swore on oath to stay away from the area. He was released on his own bail of €500.

A preliminary file has been sent to the office of the DPP and the matter is due back before the courts again on Apr 26.