Woman appears in court charged with the murder of her son

A woman appeared before Waterford District Court at approximately 9pm tonight charged with the murder of her six-year-old son.

Ruth Purcell Healy, aged 37 of Bishopsfield, Williamstown, Waterford City was brought before a special sitting of Waterford District Court, presided over by Judge Kevin Staunton.

This follows her arrest at approximately 18:05pm by Detective Sergeant David Shore of Waterford Garda Station. 

She was charged shortly after at approximately 18:35pm with the murder of her son, Matthew Healy.

The six-year-old was found unresponsive in the back of a car in the Rathmoylan area of Dunmore East, Co. Waterford on February 9.

In his evidence, Detective Sergeant Shore stated that the accused was invited to reply to the charge put before her, to which she replied, 'No thank you.'

The accused will be remanded in custody in Limerick Prison until her next court appearance via videolink on Tuesday, February 20.

Judge Staunton directed that a psychiatric evaluation take place, following a request from defending solicitor Mr. Ken Cunningham.

In addition, he directed that the accused receive any medical attention deemed necessary.

An application for high court bail is expected to be made within the next 14 days.