Man pleads guilty to manslaughter of father and daughter in Kerry – Homepage

Eoin Reynolds

A man has pleaded guilty to the murder of a father and his five-year-old daughter, who died in a house fire more than 12 years ago.

Philip Griffin (37), of no fixed abode but originally from Tralee in Co Kerry, appeared at the Central Criminal Court on Monday where he was arraigned on two charges that he murdered Anthony (30) and Nadine O’Brien at Killeen Heights in Tralee. on May 12, 2012.

Speaking via video link from prison, Griffin responded not guilty of murder, but guilty of manslaughter on each charge.

Roisin Lacey SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said the pleas to manslaughter were accepted.

Ms Lacey said a third charge linked to starting the fire would not be pursued.

Family members of the victims were in court to hear Griffin’s plea.

Judge Paul McDermott requested a probation report and victim impact statements for a sentencing hearing to be held on December 16.