Dog walker charged with assault on Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae granted bail

Anthony Foley, a 51-year-old dog walker from Dublin 8, has been charged with assault causing harm after allegedly punching Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae while the politician was stuck in traffic on 16 September 2026. The District Court refused bail, but Justice Cathleen Noctor of the High Court reversed that decision, emphasizing the accused’s right to bail and finding no solid evidence of a political motive. The judge imposed a €1,400 personal bond, a €500 independent surety, a residence approved by the Gardaí, a daily reporting schedule, an 8 pm-8 am curfew and a complete ban from Dublin 2.

Garda Sergeant Dave Griffin testified that the assault was unprovoked, describing the attacker’s shouted insults and punch captured on audio-enabled CCTV, while the State presented photos and video stills linking Foley to the scene. Foley denies being the person in the footage. The case remains in early stages, with the DPP yet to decide on further court directions.