A man faces trial for allegedly stabbing two pigs at a site planned for asylum seekers in Dublin. He is also charged with theft related to the incident.
Darren Jackson, 39, from Rivermeade Drive, will receive a Book of Evidence next month. This will prepare him for trial in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.
He faces two charges of causing unnecessary suffering to the pigs. He is also charged with stealing keys to a lighting generator the day before.
In court, Jackson’s lawyer said the Book of Evidence is ready. The judge decided he will return to court on February 10 for the formal process.
Jackson is currently out on bail with conditions. He must check in at Swords Garda Station twice a week and stay away from asylum accommodation sites.
Gardaí were called to the scene on June 26, where they found two injured pigs. Sadly, they were taken to a vet and euthanized. A third pig was unharmed and taken into care.
The site is part of a 156-acre area owned by the Department of Justice. It was planned for emergency-style tents to house up to 1,000 male asylum seekers.
In August 2024, a Ministerial Order was issued for planning exemptions, but local residents challenged it. This led to a pause in construction.
The Department of Integration has since decided to revise the order and update the plans. Work at the Thornton Hall site will remain on hold during this process.
