Man charged with murder of Matthew Healy (89) at Cork hospital named, appears in court

Dylan Magee of Churchfield Green, Churchfield on the northside of Cork city appeared before Judge Olann Kelleher this morning.

He was arrested last Sunday at 5.30am and detained for questioning at the Bridewell Garda Station in the city for questioning. Mr Magee was charged with the murder, contrary to common law, of Matthew Healy at Room 2, St Joseph's Ward at MUH on the 22nd of January last.

Det Garda Maurice O'Connor of the Bridewell Garda Station gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution. He said that he formally arrested Mr Magee at 6.29pm yesterday and charged him with murder of Mr Healy at 7.18pm.

He stated that the accused made no reply when the charge was put to him under caution.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer asked that his client receive all the necessary medical attention he requires in Cork Prison arising out of his "psychiatric difficulties.”

Judge Kelleher directed that the Governor make all the required medical treatment available to Mr Magee when he is in custody.

Mr Magee, who was wearing a grey hoodie and pants, did not speak during the brief hearing. Members of the Magee family were present in court for the hearing.

Meanwhile, legal aid was assigned in the case at the request of Mr Buttimer as the defendant is currently in receipt of disability allowance and is now in prison.

No bail application was made at this juncture. Bail cannot be applied for at district court level when a person is charged with murder.

Mr Magee will appear before Cork District Court again by video link on January 30th next. He was remanded in custody pending his next court appearance by video link.

Mr Healy was a retired farmer who lived in Berrings in Co Cork. He died following an incident in the hospital on Sunday morning.

He is survived by two adult sons and a daughter. His wife Delia died earlier this month. The couple were pre deceased by a daughter who died in a drowning tragedy many years ago.

Mr Healy also is survived by his eight grandchildren. Several generations of the Healy family have resided in Berrings which is a small village 17.5 kilometres north west of Cork city. Matthew Healy retired around 15 years ago and was described locally as a gentle and kind man.

Meanwhile, MUH issued a statement following the death of Mr Healy where they offered their condolences to the family of the deceased. Counselling services are being provided to staff and patients impacted by the incident.