By Ronan Judge

A teenage boy who missed a court appearance for a family trip to Medjugorje faced possible arrest on his return to Ireland, a judge has warned.

At Galway District Court, Judge Fiona Lydon said that only for the 19-year-old accused was legally represented in court, she would have issued a bench warrant.

After the case was called, defence solicitor Michael Cunningham said his client was not present because he had travelled with his family to Medjugorje.

Sergeant Joanne McGhee confirmed to the court that the State had been put on notice that the accused would not be present.

Mr Cunningham told Judge Lydon she is familiar with the case and dealt with his client in another court.

Judge Lydon said, “This has to stop Mr Cunningham … Medjugorje is open for business every day. The court is today.”

Judge Lydon said she would grant a short adjournment to October 13 and issued a warning over any further missed court appearances.

“Only for you are here Mr Cunningham, I would have a bench warrant waiting for him when he gets off the plane in Knock,” she added.

In the case, the teenager is charged with committing affray with another named male at Fairgreen Road on July 4, 2024, contrary to section 16 Public Order Act.

He is also charged with trespassing without reasonable excuse at 85 Glassan, Ballybane on April 20, 2025, in a manner to cause or likely to cause fear, contrary to section 13 of the Public Order Act.

Pictured: Teenage defendant missed a court appearance in Galway for a family trip to Medjugorje.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme.