Eight men charged with violent disorder in Ballinasloe

Eight men have been charged with violent disorder after an altercation in Ballinasloe, Co Galway yesterday. They appeared before a special sitting of Loughrea District Court following disturbances in the town's centre. Most charges relate to an incident at St Michael's Square. The accused include Bernard Cawley, 24, from Canal Drive, Ballinasloe; John Ward, 29, from Esker Park, Arcadia, Athlone; Patrick Ward, 29, from Dunlo Centre, Dunlo Street, Ballinasloe; John Ward, 20, Gerard Ward, 18, and Bernie Ward, 25, all from Hymany Park, Ballinasloe.

Joe Joyce, 24, from Farnagh, Moate in Co Westmeath, was among the eight defendants. He faces two counts of violent disorder at the Marina car park and St Michael's Square. Judge Olivia Traynor cleared the courtroom between cases. All eight men were released on €500 bail each, subject to several conditions. They were instructed to avoid contact with witnesses and be available to police 24/7.

The Ballinasloe-based defendants were ordered not to leave town, while those in Athlon must stay out of Ballinasloe. Joyce has been told to avoid both Ballinasloe and Athlone. Seven of the accused will return to Ballinasloe District Court on 26 November, while Joe Joyce is set to appear on 3 December.