Man appears in court charged with murder of father and daughter in Kerry

Anne Lucey

A 37-year-old man has appeared in court 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, is also charged with setting fire to the house, and appeared before Cahersiveen District Court on Thursday morning.

He had been extradited from the UK on foot of two arrest warrants issued last November by Judge David Waters, the court heard.

The Director of Public Prosecutions had instructed for an application to be made for reporting restrictions to be put in place regarding the identification of the child, however, Judge Waters refused the application.

He also questioned if he had the power to make such an order, saying it was unrealistic given the widespread reports in Thursday’s newspapers.

Mr Griffin is charged with the murder of Anthony (30) and Nadine (five) O’Brien on May 12th, 2012, at 42 Killeen Heights, Tralee.

He is also charged with arson at the dwelling on the same date.

Detective Sergeant Ernie Henderson of Tralee Garda station gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution.

He arrested Philip Griffin at Dublin Airport on Wednesday on foot of two arrest warrants issued by Judge Waters last November.

He conveyed him to Tralee Garda Station where he was charged and cautioned.

In reply to the charges being put to him, Sgt Henderson said the accused replied:  “I have nothing to say at this time.”

Stephen O’Brien, prosecuting, said the State’s application was that the accused be remanded in custody to appear via video link at Tralee District Court on February 14th.

The State also applied for reporting restrictions to be put in place for information that would identify the child, the garda said.

Judge Waters asked if he had the power to do so, and was told he may not have.

The matter had been widely reported, the judge noted, adding the restriction might not apply to a deceased child.

Judge Waters ultimately refused the application, saying any such order would be “meaningless” in the current circumstances.

Brendan Ahern, Solicitor for Mr Griffin, applied for legal aid and asked that his client receive medical attention in custody.

Judge Waters made the order and remanded Mr Griffin in custody to appear in court via video link on February 14th.

Kelly O’Brien, the wife and mother of the two deceased, was in court for the hearing and shouted at the accused as he left the body of the court.