A 27-year old man has been before the district court at Midleton in Co Cork, charged with dangerous driving at a fuel protest near Whitegate oil refinery last Saturday.
Darra O'Shea, of Corbally South, Lisgoold, Leamlara, Co Cork, is facing five separate counts of dangerous driving at locations in Rostellan, Aghada and Whitegate.
Around 100 people gathered outside the courthouse this morning as Mr O'Shea arrived. They had banners of support and cheered and clapped as he entered the building.
His case was briefly adjourned to allow court presenter, Sergeant Linda O'Leary, to discuss proposed bail conditions with Mr O'Shea's barrister, Elaine Audley.
When his case was called again, Sergeant O'Leary said there was agreement that, as conditions of his bail, Darra O'Shea would not post on social media in relation to the charges he faces or in relation to future court appearances. He must also keep the peace and be of good behaviour.
Darra O'Shea is charged with dangerous driving of a tractor and slurry tank at five separate locations near a fuel protest that was taking place at Irving oil refinery at Whitegate in east Cork last Saturday.
These include Rostellan, Aghada and Whitegate Cross.
Sergeant O'Leary said directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions would now be sought on how the case will proceed.
She sought an eight-week adjournment, to 25 June next.
Defence Barrister Elaine Audley described her client as being a stranger to the court. She said Mr O'Shea would be anxious that directions would be available on the next date.
Judge Colm Roberts remanded Mr O'Shea on bail. He will be back before the court again in June.
