A 15-YEAR-OLD boy was yesterday charged along with his father and uncle over an outbreak of violence linked to a Traveller family feud which has seen "tit for tat" attacks, homes vandalised, a stabbing and a shooting.
The Children's Court heard that up to nine members of the trio's family went to Ballymun Garda station last Monday and launched an attack on a group from the rival faction outside. They were armed with knives, hatchets and slash-hooks, Judge Bryan Smyth heard.
The court heard the feud dated back to the year 2000, but had mostly calmed down. However, it resumed last Thursday and has seen a number of homes vandalised, a man stabbed and firearms being used in incidents which are under investigation.
Gardaí have increased their presence around the areas in which both sides of the feud reside, in Finglas and Ballymun.
The teenager was charged with engaging in violent disorder, possessing a knife and production of a knife during a dispute at the Garda station on Monday, October 13th.
His father, in his 40s, was charged with violent disorder and possessing a knife. His uncle, in his 40s, was charged with violent disorder, assault and criminal damage.
Garda Sgt Oliver Henry of Ballymun objected to bail. He said there had been attempts at mediation, but the sides "were not intent on a peaceful resolution". He said he did not believe there was "adequate parental supervision" to prevent the teenager's involvement in further feud-related activities.
The boy's solicitor Maura Keily pleaded for bail, saying her client was the youngest person involved and was attending school. Garreth Noble pleaded for bail for the boy's uncle and father. Sgt Henry objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and a belief both men would continue to feud. Judge Smyth refused bail and remanded all three in custody.