A district court hearing was suspended today after a commotion was caused when an accused man mooned at a judge and then handled his genital area in front of him.

Proceedings at Ennis District Court were yesterday suspended in an incident sparked by Brian Joyce taking down his pants down in front of Judge Patrick Durcan.

Mr Joyce turned his back on the judge and started beating his behind with his hands after Judge Durcan refused bail to the man's younger brother, John.

The two Joyces both of St Enda's, Beechpark, Ennis were before the court on Section 3 assault charges on a 17 year old male and after 'mooning' at the judge, Brian Joyce with his pants around his ankles turned around and handled his genital area and shouted at the shocked judge.

As Gardai in court restrained the 21-year old and his 18-year old brother, Judge Durcan retreated from his bench into his adjoining chambers.

During the melee, one Garda was assaulted in the court. Around five Gardai were in court at the time and Garda reinforcements were called to deal with the disturbance and after court business was suspended for 20 minutes, Judge Durcan re-commenced the bail hearing.

For the recommenced hearing, Gardai were taking no chances and had both brothers in handcuffs while Gardai cleared the court of family and friends of the two who had been present for the earlier hearing.

At the resumed hearing, Judge Durcan remanded the two men - who are members of the travelling community - in custody.

Online Editors