THIS man yesterday appeared in court charged with murder — nearly five years after his ex’s death at her home.
Tragic mother-of-two Amadea McDermott (27) was found dead at her home in Rathvale Drive, Ayrfield in Coolock, north Dublin, on July 20, 2017.
And yesterday, construction worker Martin Hayes appeared in court charged with Ms McDermott’s murder — almost five years on from her death.
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Mr Hayes (32), of Poddle Close, Crumlin in Dublin, replied “not guilty” when charged, Dublin District Court heard.
Det Sgt Anthony Maloney said he arrested Mr Hayes at Cork Street in Dublin yesterday and took him to Coolock Garda station before he was brought to appear in Dublin’s Central Criminal Court.
The officer also told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions directed trial on indictment in the Central Criminal Court.
The court heard that it did not have jurisdiction to grant bail in this case, and that an application will have to be made in the High Court if the accused wishes to apply for it.
Legal aid was granted after the judge was told that Mr Hayes worked in construction, earning €380 a week.
Mr Hayes, who had a black beard and was seen wearing paint-covered clothing, did not address the court during the short proceedings.
Judge Halpin remanded him in custody pending the preparation of a book of evidence.
Mr Hayes will face his next hearing at Cloverhill District Court on Friday.
Tributes poured out for Ms McDermott at the time of her death, and for many years afterwards.
In a social media post on July 20, 2018, her brother Zack told of his sister’s bubbly personality and love for life.
"A year today. The day circles in my mind everyday,” he wrote, on a post of the young mother with a baby in her arms.
"This was you a few days before you were taken from us, as proud and happy as ever. You were dancing, singing, playing with all the kids and being the amazing person you always were.
"I have no doubt in my mind you’re up there with Da watching over us and your two little warriors. Not a day goes by that they don’t think about their Mammy.
"I miss you more and more everyday. The pain never goes away and the heartbreak I have forever.”
