Man charged with murdering father and young daughter in Kerry over a decade ago sent forward for trial

Accused has also been charged with setting fire to the victims' house

Anthony O'Brien holding his daughter Nadine. Family photo

The book of evidence has been served in the case of a 37–year-old Tralee man charged with the double murder of a father and his young daughter in their home in Tralee, Co Kerry, almost 12 years ago.

Philip Griffin, of no fixed abode but originally from Tralee, has also been charged with setting fire to the house.

He appeared in Caherciveen District Court on February 8 last and has been remanded in continuing custody since. He had been extradited from the UK on foot of two arrest warrants issued last November, the court heard.

Philip Griffin is charged with the murders of Anthony O’Brien, 30, and Nadine O’Brien, 5, on May 12, 2012, at 42 Killeen Heights, Tralee.

He is also charged that on the same date he committed arson in that he damaged by fire a house at 42 Killeen Heights, Tralee.

He was before Tralee District Court on Wednesday morning in person.

Sergeant Chris Manton, prosecuting, told the court the book of evidence had been served and the DPP consented to his return for trial to the current sitting of the Central Criminal Court.

Judge John King read the alibi notice warning and remanded Philip Griffin in custody to the current sittings of the Central Criminal Court.

His solicitor Brendan Ahern said his client was already on legal aid and he was seeking two counsels. The application for one junior and one senior counsel was granted.

Judge King remanded him in custody to the current sittings of the Central Criminal Court.