Girl injured in Parnell Square stabbing ‘stands for first time’ since attack

By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A girl who was seriously injured in a knife attack on Dublin’s Parnell Square has “stood up for the first time” since the incident, her family has said.

Through a message on a GoFundMe page, the family of the girl provided an update, saying her progress has been “great”.

Two other children and a creche worker were also hurt in the attack in Parnell Square East on November 23rd, 2023.

The girl, who is now aged six but was five at the time, was gravely injured and spent several weeks in paediatric intensive care.

She spent more than 370 days in hospital before moving home.

Earlier this month, she was said to be “thriving”.

In an update on Saturday, the family said: “We have been home since the end of November, and the progress has been great.

“Yesterday was a major day: our little girl stood up for the first time. Assisted by two physiotherapists, one on each side, she planted her two feet on the ground and stood tall.

“The physios said she was putting weight on her legs, which is a good sign.

“She has also made strides in her arm and hand movements, neck control, and back strengthening.”

“Being around her everyday has been rewarding. It is full-on dedication, even with help, but this is what needs to happen right now. Let us keep powering through.”

A riot erupted in Dublin city centre following the attack.

A man has been charged and put before a Dublin court in relation to the stabbing incident outside the school.

Riad Bouchaker (50), of no fixed address, is accused of trying to murder the two girls and boy.

He is also charged with the assault causing serious harm to the creche worker.

He is further charged with three counts of assault causing harm and the possession and production of a 36cm kitchen knife.