Extinction Rebellion activists to decide plea over graffiti charges

Two Extinction Rebellion activists, who allegedly live-streamed a graffiti attack at the Department of Foreign Affairs in Dublin, have been given five weeks to decide how they will plead to charges of criminal damage.

Orla Murphy, 20, with an address at Ballinacarrig, Whitechurch, Co. Cork and 21-year-old Oxford University biology student Zachery Lumley, from South Lodge Ballinlough, Cork City were arrested on the afternoon of March 19th last.

They were charged with criminal damage at Iveagh House, at St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.

Paint was splattered on the front of the building and graffiti saying “no more empty promises” sprayed across the building’s entrance. Posters were also stuck to the wall of the building.

They were granted bail at Dublin District Court the following day, but were ordered to stay out of Dublin city, except for court appearances, and to remain away from all Government buildings.

Ms Murphy, a former film student, was held in custody for a number of weeks before she signed her bail bond and was released.

They appeared in court again on Tuesday when Judge Michael Walsh heard the Director of Public Prosecutions has directed the case should remain at district court level if they plead guilty.

Otherwise they must face a trial before a judge and jury in the circuit court which has tougher sentencing powers.They did not indicate how they intend to plead during their latest appearance.

Their solicitor, Luke Staines, asked Judge Walsh to order disclosure of prosecution evidence.

Judge Walsh directed gardaí to furnish copies of statements and remanded the pair on continuing bail until their next hearing on October 12th.