Jury sworn in for Nally trial

A jury has been sworn in for the trial of a Co Mayo farmer charged with the manslaughter of a Traveller two years ago.

Padraig Nally (aged 62) of Funshinaugh Cross, Claremorris, pleaded not guilty at the Central Criminal Court in Dublin to the unlawful killing of father of 11 John Ward after he entered his land on October 14, 2004.

The 42-year-old, from Carrowbone Halting Site on the outskirts of Galway city, had been shot twice and beaten with a stick.

Mr Justice Paul Carney warned members of the jury panel that there had been a high level of publicity surrounding the case.

He said: “This case has engendered a great deal of publicity, perhaps more than any other in the history of this court. It has also engendered extremely strong feelings.”

However, he said the jury must try the case “strictly on the basis of the evidence adduced and the trial judge’s directions of law”.

He added: “Anybody serving is warranting that he or she can do that without any prejudice towards the Travelling or farming community.”

The case is expected to run into next week. However, he said there may be some delay as counsel for Mr Nally, Mr Brendan Grehan SC, is due before him in another trial in Cork. The defence is also expected to make an application to the trial judge ahead of the case going ahead.

A jury of eight men and four women has been sworn in to hear the case, which is expected to go ahead before Mr Justice Kevin O’Higgins shortly.