Two people charged in connection with the investigation into a fatal house fire in Waterford City appeared before a special sitting of Clonmel District Court this evening.

Cian Stacey (21) of no fixed abode and Jessica Dalton (31) with an address in Waterford City appeared before Judge Andrew Gubbins in relation to the incident which occurred at Birchwood in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

They were both charged with criminal damage, as well as two counts of assault causing serious harm contrary to Section 4 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Persons Act 1997 against individuals who cannot be named for legal reasons. 

Detective Sgt Michael Burke of Waterford Garda Station gave evidence of the arrest, charge and caution of Ms Dalton who he said made no reply to the charges.

Solicitor Ciaran Murphy outlined that his client was unemployed and a lone parent and sought free legal aid. She was remanded in custody to appear again before Waterford District Court on Tuesday next.

Detective Sgt Brian O’Callaghan gave evidence of the arrest, charge and caution of Mr Stacey who he said made no reply to the charges. 

He was remanded in custody to appear again before Waterford District Court via video link on Tuesday next. 

Solicitor Ciaran Murphy asked that his client receive the necessary psychiatric treatment while in custody.

Philip and Kim English and their sons Callum and Jayden died in the fire at Birchwood on Tuesday.

The funeral service for the English family will take place at the Sacred Heart Church, The Folly on Monday with reposal tomorrow (Sunday).