A man has appeared in court charged with arson, in relation to a fire at a disused pub in Ringsend, in the early hours of New Year’s Eve.
Stephen McDonnell, a 49-year-old crane driver was arrested this morning at his home at Cambridge Park in Ringsend.
The married father-of-four was granted bail today, subject to a number of conditions, including that he doesn't make contact with the owner of the Shipwright Pub.
He must also stay away from Thorncastle Street and Fitzwilliam Street.
His solicitor, Tony Collier, told the court his client has lived in his current address in Ringsend for fifteen years and is deeply rooted in the community.
The fire caused €2 million worth of damage to the pub, which was being renovated to provide emergency accommodation for homeless families.
It also had the potential to spread to adjoining residential buildings.
Mr McDonnell, who denies the charge, is due back in court next week.
