Four young men appeared before a special sitting of Galway District Court last night charged with causing criminal damage to the statute of Padraic O Conaire at Eyre Square, Galway, and with stealing the head of the statue, valued at £50,000.
The men, who were arrested yesterday afternoon, were remanded in custody to Galway District Court on Monday.
Before the court were: Mr Garret Leahy (20) of The Hermitage, Armagh, Gavin McNaney (18) of Ashley Avenue, Armagh, John McManus (20) of Rock Road, Armagh and Garry O'Connor (19) of Drumbeola Avenue, Armagh.
They are further charged with using threatening and abusive language and behaviour.
