Multi-millionaire and bachelor farmer, John Joseph McCabe (79) is to contest a charge that he assaulted a Clarecastle man last May.

Mr McCabe of Carnelly House, Clarecastle appeared at Ennis District Court on Wednesday charged with assaulting John Colleran (55) at Abbey View in Clarecastle last May.

The alleged assault on 12 May last year is contrary to Section Two of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the State Act 1997, indicating that the alleged assault is minor in nature.

Solicitor for Mr McCabe who was present in court, Caitríona Carmody said she was seeking a date for a hearing of the case.

Asked if there was a legal aid application by Judge Patrick Durcan, Ms Carmody replied "no".

Judge Durcan said that the case will be heard on 11 April at Ennis District Court.

Millions

During the Celtic Tiger era, Mr McCabe secured the largest land-deal in Clare when he sold 48 acres of land for €18.8m to a Galway developer in 2005.

Anyone convicted of Section Two assaults in the district court is liable to a jail term of up to six months and/or a fine not exceeding €1,905.