Probation Service shortages delays sentencing in Tuam case

COURTS

Staff shortages in Galway's Probation Services have led to a delay in sentencing people involved in a violent disorder incident in Tuam last year.

Two men and two women — all from Tuam — appeared before the latest sitting of Galway Circuit Criminal Court for sentencing in relation to an incident of violent disorder on Vicar Street, Tuam on March 11, 2025.

They were Dillon Ward (30) of 33 Parkmore Estate, Tuam; Bridget Ward (30) of 4 Saint Patrick’s Terrace, Tuam; Chelsea Ward (29) of 24 Dublin Road, Tuam; and Anthony Barrett (26) of 24 Dublin Road, Tuam.

At previous sittings of Tuam District Court, all four entered signed pleas of guilty to violent disorder, contrary to Section 15 of the Public Order Act.

Barrett also previously admitted to the production of an article, an iron bar, during the same incident.

They were before the October session of Galway Circuit Court for sentencing.

Judge Brian O’Callaghan apologised to Dillon and Bridget Ward after it emerged that the Probation Services “was not in a position to do a report within the six months they were given”.

Judge O’Callaghan said this was due to a “lack of resources” and a “shortage of staff” in the Probation Services.

The court heard all four were first-time offenders. Probation reports on Chelsea Ward and Barrett were requested during the latest brief hearing.

Judge O’Callaghan adjourned sentencing until July 7 to allow time for the preparation of four reports by the Probation Services.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme