Man bailed over pub sword attack

A 33-year-old man appeared in court today charged with assault and possession of an offensive weapon, following a sword attack in a suburban pub.

Anthony Dowling, from Forklawn Drive, Blanchardstown, west Dublin, was remanded on bail to appear before Dublin District Court next week.

He was arrested in Finglas, in the north of the city, on Sunday night, minutes after a 27-year-old had his hand chopped off in the savage attack.

Peter Rogers, 27, from Ballymun, was rushed to hospital and underwent hours of emergency surgery as medics battled to re-attach his severed hand.

Detective Garda Tony Gleeson told the court Dowling was stopped in the Barnamore Park area of Finglas, 20 minutes after the sword attack in the nearby Deputy Mayor pub.

He was arrested after gardaí discovered he was in possession of a hammer and a sword.

Judge Bryan Smyth remanded Dowling into custody with consent to bail.

A number of bail conditions were imposed, including Dowling must sign on once a week at Finglas garda station and provide his own cash bond of €1,000.

Judge Smyth also agreed to grant bail if an independent surety of €8,000 was provided, or €5,000 cash in lieu.