Cherry-picker-protest developer remanded on bail

A property developer accused of dangerous driving for allegedly parking a cherry picker outside Leinster House on Budget Day has been remanded on continuing bail pending directions from the DPP.

Joe McNamara (aged 41), of Dun na Carraige, Blackrock, Co. Galway, who reportedly owes Anglo Irish Bank €3.5m, had been charged at Dublin District Court with dangerous on the morning of December 7 last, hours before Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan made his budget speech.

Mr McNamara had been remanded in custody on that charge by the District Court but later that evening was released by the High Court.

Today the property developer, who was wearing a brown jacket, a light coloured shirt and brown trousers, appeared again.

However Judge Cormac Dunne was told that the State was seeking further time to obtain directions from the DPP in relation to the case.

A Garda Sergeant told the judge that there was “quite a large file” and another six weeks was sought.

Mr McNamara remained silent during the case but his solicitor Stephen O'Mahony consented to the State's application and Judge Dunne adjourned the case until March 8 next.

He said that on that date the matter will be before the court for “administrative purposes” and excused Mr McNamara from attending the case then.

He is also facing a hearing on March 21 next in connection with separate incident where a concrete mixer truck was allegedly driven against the gates of Leinster House last September 29 last. A cement lorry, with the words “Toxic Bank” and “Anglo” in red letters painted on its sides, were allegedly driven towards the gates of Leinster House causing minor damages.

He has pleaded not guilty to criminal damage and motoring charges in connection with an incident.

He also denies five further connected charges under the Road Traffic Act including dangerous driving, having no road tax, failing to display tax, not having a certificate of road worthiness, and failing to produce a driving licence.

In that case, the court has heard that Mr McNamara was exercising his right to express opinions.