An Algerian man who stands accused of a stabbing incident in which several young children and an adult care worker were injured outside Scoil Mhuire, Parnell Sq Dublin 1, “isn’t fit to plead”, the Central Criminal Court has heard.
Riad Bouchaker (50) of no fixed abode, stands accused of causing serious injury to a 5 year old girl on the 23rd of November 2023, as well as causing injury to a number of other young children and their care worker.
Defending counsel Mr. Kelly told Justice Paul McDermott that the psychiatric report in respect of the accused has been supplied to the DPP.
Prosecuting counsel Ms. Staunton confirmed that the DPP is now in the process of having the defence report accessed by an expert, Dr. O’Connell, on behalf of the state.
The case will come before the courts again on the 22nd of October.
Justice McDermott criticised the continued delays in bringing the case to trial, nothing that the chief alleged injured party is a “very young child”.
The case “should not be delayed” he said, receiving instruction from the DPP that the matter has now been going on since July 2024.
Having regard to the lack of resources available in brining the case on, he said that the “executive” must make all efforts to see that there are minimal further delays.