A 57-year-old bus driver was sent forward for trial today charged with buggery with an animal.

Sean McDonnell, 18 Rathmore, Churchill Meadows, Raheen, Limerick, is charged with buggery with an animal, namely a German Shepherd dog, at Laurel Park, Patrickswell, Co Limerick, on October 7th, 2008, contrary to Section 61 of the Offences Against the Person Act.

Mr McDonnell appeared before Limerick District Court today where he was served with the book of evidence in the case.

Det Sgt Paraig O’Dywer gave evidence of serving the book on the accused.

Insp Jerry Horan told the court the Director of Public Prosecutions had consented for Mr McDonnell to be sent forward for trial to the next sitting of Limerick Circuit Criminal Court in September.

Dressed in a dark grey suit and red tie the accused man sat in court accompanied by his daughter for the brief hearing. He was granted free legal aid to cover the cost of his solicitor Ted McCarthy plus two counsel.

Judge Eamon O’Brien, issued the alibi warning which means the accused must give the State 14 days notice of any alibi witnesses he intends calling.

Mr McDonnell was remanded on continuing bail.