A priest suffered significant damage to one of his eyes.
A 28-year-old man, Damien Connolly Prouse from Ballivor in Meath, has been charged with seven offences, including allegedly punching a priest at St Patrick’s Pontifical University in Maynooth.
The incident, which occurred on February 3, also involved assaults on three others, criminal damage, and attempted burglary.
At Naas District Court, Prouse’s father made an emotional plea, stating that his son, who has schizophrenia, had never received adequate mental health care.
He described how his son’s condition had worsened after a medication change and that he had previously pleaded with doctors not to release him from psychiatric care.
The court, according to The Journal, heard that the attack was unprovoked, with the priest suffering serious eye injuries requiring surgery.
Gardaí stated that Prouse showed no remorse and admitted to the offences.
Bail was denied due to concerns over witness interference and further offences.
Judge Desmond Zaidan criticised Ireland’s psychiatric system, calling for legal reforms to consider family input in mental health assessments.
He ordered Prouse to undergo a full psychiatric evaluation at Cloverhill Prison’s medical wing, stating that proper treatment was needed.
He said he would have referred Prouse to the Central Mental Hospital but he would probably be informed that a bed was not available.
29 New Jobs To Be Created As Chemist Warehouse To Open In Naas Tomorrow
Vulnerable Adults, Some Using Wheelchairs, Forced To Share Inaccessible Vehicles At Kildare HSE Service
“Grabbed By the Neck”: Founder Tells Kildare Today Why She Launched New Female-Focused Taxi Service
Just 75% Of Landowners On Board So Far As Uisce Eireann Submits Plans For Major Water Supply Project
Two Kildare Animal Charities Share €170k Fund As Animal Welfare Costs Continue To Mount
Call To Make Extended Christmas Train Timetable Permanent For Commuter Towns
Roadside Memorial Ban Proposal Criticised Over Christmas Timing
Man (30s) Dies Following Collision Involving Bus, Car And Pedestrian At Kishawanny, Carbury
