Father and son appeal row decision

A FATHER and son who were given jail sentences for the assault of Councillor Michael Cahill had their sentences suspended following an appeal at Tralee Circuit Criminal Court last week.

Their solicitor, Nuala Liston, had appealed the severity of the sentences.

State solicitor, Edward O’Sullivan, told the court that there had been a row in the Dáil bar in Killorglin.

It involved, amongst others, James O’Connor Senior and Junior – both of whom have an address at 43 An Bhainseach, Killorglin.

When a row broke out in the bar, Michael Cahill and his son, Tommy, had asked both of the O’Connors to calm down on the night in question, December 20, 2014. The O’Connors then turned on them, the court heard.

Mr O’Connor Senior attempted to headbutt Michael Cahill, while Tommy was assaulted by Mr O’Connor Junior, who also swiped glasses off the bar counter.

Gardaí were called to the scene; the defendants were aggressive and highly intoxicated, the court heard.

James O’Connor Junior had faced a number of charges arising out of the incident and had received a nine-month sentence in relation to what happened on the night.

James O’Connor Senior had received a six-month sentence for his part in the fracas.

Ms Liston said that when the case first came to court, a large voluntary payment had been demanded and that they had to plead not guilty.

Judge Tom O’Donnell said that it would appear that it was such a row that the “cavalry had to be sent for”.

However, he reduced the District Court sentence.

He gave Mr O’Connor Senior a six-month suspended sentence for the assault of Mr Cahill. He also gave Mr O’Connor Junior a six-month suspended sentence for assaulting Mr Cahill.