Man Jailed Over Gardaí Attack During Riot

An alcoholic schizophrenic Westmeath man has been jailed for three years for his part in the 'Love Ulster' riot.

John Saunders, 40, represented himself in court following an unsuccessful application last July to change his plea to "not guilty" after evidence was heard in the case in December 2007.

Saunders, of Galway Road, Kinnegad, pleaded guilty to violent disorder on February 22, 2006 in the city centre, admitting to throwing missiles at gardaí during the 2006 pro-unionist parade.

Saunders told Judge Desmond Hogan that he disputed some evidence that had been outlined at previous hearings and said he became "caught up" in the events of the day when he went to Parnell Street to buy alcohol.

Saunders said he saw the "riot squad" on O'Connell Street dispersing crowds and admitted throwing stones at gardaí.

Judge Hogan said he had photographic evidence of Saunders involvement in the riot but had considered a letter handed into court by Saunders.

He said that he accepted Saunders felt he had been caught up in the situation rather than been an organiser of events. He added his 24 previous convictions were "all from drink."

(DW)