Marie Gauvin lost the sight in one of her eyes when a glass was thrown at her during an event for the Gathering in Birr

A YOUNG man has been charged for his involvement in an incident that left a tourist blind in one eye.

A garda spokes-person confirmed that a 19-year-old male from the Birr area in Co Offaly was charged with serious assault yesterday evening.

The teen is being charged for his involvement in the incident, which left Canadian resident and Offaly emigrant Marie Gauvin (pictured) blind in one eye.

He was released on bail but will appear in Portlaoise District Court on Monday, August 19.

The mother of one was wounded in Birr over a week ago, after attending an event for The Gathering – the Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival.

Teetotal Mrs Gauvin was an innocent bystander when a fight broke out, and a glass or bottle was hurled and hit her eye.

Her injuries included a severed retina. Speaking to the Irish Independent last night, Ms Gauvin confirmed she would return to Ireland to give evidence if she was required to. "If they require me, I will be there."

Irish Independent