Two charged over Waterford arson attack further remanded

A man and a woman, who are charged in connection with an arson attack in Waterford city in which four people died last week, have been further remanded in custody.

Kim and Philip English, and their sons, 12-year-old Callum and nine-year-old Jayden, died following an arson attack on their home in the Birchwood estate last Monday.

Jessica Dalton, aged 31, with an address in Waterford city, and 21-year-old Cian Stacey, and of no fixed abode, appeared before Waterford District Court today.

Both are charged with Section 4 assault causing serious harm against two individuals, who cannot be named for legal reasons.

They are both also further charged with criminal damage.

Solicitor Ken Cunningham said he had asked for his client, Ms Dalton, to be presented in person today to "perhaps ventilate" a bail application.

However, he said after consulting with Ms Dalton that he would be reserving his position on bail until a later date.

Mr Cunningham said his client was consenting to a further remand in custody for 28 days.

Judge Catriona Murray then remanded Ms Dalton in custody to appear before the court again on 17 November via video-link.

Mr Stacey appeared before the court via video-link this morning.

Mr Cunningham said that Mr Stacey was consenting to a further remand in custody for 28 days.

Judge Murray remanded him in custody to appear before the court again on 17 November via video-link.

Both Mr Stacey and Ms Dalton have been granted free legal aid.

A number of people staged a protest outside Waterford Courthouse, and there was a large garda presence in the vicinity of the courthouse throughout the brief court appearances.