Wed Sep 18 15:24:00 UTC 2024: ## Former Clare Hurling Star Niall Gilligan Faces Trial for Alleged Assault
**Sixmilebridge, Ireland** – Former All-Star and Clare All-Ireland winning hurler Niall Gilligan has been sent forward for trial in the circuit court over an alleged assault on a 12-year-old boy. Gilligan, who denies the charges, is accused of striking the boy with a wooden stick, causing significant injuries.
The incident is alleged to have occurred on October 5th at the Jamaica Inn Hostel in Sixmilebridge. According to the State Solicitor, Aisling Casey, the boy was at the disused hostel with a friend when Gilligan confronted them. The boys reportedly attempted to flee, but the injured party slipped on muddy ground and was allegedly struck several times with a wooden stick while lying on the ground.
The boy sustained multiple injuries, including a fractured left hand, bruising, and lacerations. He was initially treated at the VHI clinic and subsequently transferred to University Hospital Limerick.
Judge Gabbett initially declined jurisdiction in the case due to the severity of the injuries, deeming them beyond the scope of the district court. The DPP ultimately consented to the case proceeding to the circuit court.
Gilligan, an auctioneer and farmer, denies the charges of assault causing harm and producing a wooden stick during a dispute. His solicitor, Daragh Hassett, stated that there is a complete disagreement regarding the alleged events.
Niall Gilligan was a prominent player for the Clare hurling team, winning the All-Ireland Final in 1997 and receiving an All-Star award in 1999. He is now facing trial for a serious alleged assault, a case that will be closely watched by the public.
First Piper 