Man in court over murders of father and daughter

Philip Griffin outside Kerry District Court

A 37-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murders of a father and his five-year-old daughter in the Republic of Ireland.

Anthony O'Brien, 30, and his daughter Nadine died in a house fire in Killeen Heights in Tralee, County Kerry, twelve years ago.

Philip Griffin, who was extradited from the UK has also been charged with arson.

He was remanded in custody.

Neighbours heard shouting coming from the family's home at about 02:00 local time on 12 May 2012.

Mr O'Brien helped his wife Kelly O'Brien to escape.

He then tried to rescue Nadine, but they both died.

The fire broke out in Killeen Heights in Tralee early on 12 May 2012

Garda (Irish police) Det Sgt Ernie Henderson told the court Mr Griffin was arrested at Dublin Airport on Wednesday.

The court heard the defendant had nothing to say when the charges were put to him.

His lawyer asked for medical assistance for him in custody.

Free legal aid was granted after the court heard Mr Griffin had no income or assets.

He will be back before the court in Tralee next Wednesday.

The judge did not grant a state application to restrict reporting of the case to prevent identification of Nadine O'Brien.

He said it would be meaningless as the case had previously been reported, adding he doubted if he had the power to do so.