Trial date set for alleged Trinity Gate crasher

A 66-year-old Dublin man has been sent forward for trial accused of wrecking the historic wooden front gate of Trinity College Dublin.

John Farrell, from Fassaugh Avenue, Cabra, was served with a book of evidence when he appeared at Dublin District Court on Wednesday.

He had been charged earlier with 22 offences including allegations of criminal damage, endangerment of life, dangerous driving and hit-and-run, in connection with the incident.

The DPP directed he should face “trial on indictment”, meaning his case will be dealt with at a higher level, in the Circuit Court.

Mr Farrell has not yet indicated how he intends to plead. One of his charges is for causing €43,816 worth of damages to front wooden gate at Trinity College Dublin (TCD). He is also accused of causing about €18,000 worth of damage to other property in TCD and to vehicles on nearby streets.

The offences are alleged to have occurred at Trinity College, Dawson Street, College Green and Nassau Street on April 2 last year.

On Wednesday, after he was served with the book of evidence, Judge Michael Walsh made an order sending him forward for trial on bail. His next hearing will take place in the circuit court on April 24th, the judge ordered.

Judge Walsh also informed him that if he intended to rely on an alibi in his defence he must notify the prosecution within 14 days.

The famous wooden gate was erected in the early 1870s as part of refurbishment in the college, replacing the original 1759 gates. Made of oak it had distinctive high relief and high fielded diamond shaped panelling.

It was originally constructed from European oak with pine inner linings. After it sustained serious damage it was replaced in June.