Son charged with murder of his mother

Fionn Braidwood is charged with the murder of Jane Braidwood (65), at the family home in Dun Laoghaire on Tuesday evening this week.

His solicitor, Ronnie Lynam, told the court this was a "very difficult time for this gentleman" and he asked the judge to order a psychiatric assessment.

Judge Anne Watkin remanded Mr Braidwood in custody to appear before Cloverhill District Court on Thursday next, January 29.

The accused must apply to the High Court for bail on a murder charge.

The judge also ordered a psychiatric assessment of Mr Braidwood to include an assessment of his fitness to stand trial.

Mr Braidwood's mother Jane, who worked as a mental health professional, died following an incident at her home at Clarinda Park East in Dun Laoghaire on January 20.

The mother of three was taken to St Vincent's Hospital by ambulance but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

This morning, Ms Braidwood's son Fionn appeared before Dun Laoghaire District Court charged with her murder at Clarinda Park East in Dun Laoghaire. Detective Sergeant Don Griffin said Mr Braidwood was arrested at 5.27pm on January 21 at Dun Laoghaire Garda Station and charged at 6pm with murder.

Sgt Griffin said that in reply to the charge after caution, Mr Braidwood said "no".

The court heard that Mr Braidwood is not working and on social welfare and Judge Watkin assigned solicitor Ronnie Lynam on free legal aid.

Mr Lynam said this was "a very difficult time for this gentleman" and asked the judge to order a psychiatric assessment. He said "a fitness to plead issue" should also be covered.

Mr Braidwood, who was wearing pale grey tracksuit bottoms and a navy sweatshirt, did not address the court during the short hearing.

hnews@herald.ie