LAST UPDATE | 13 Feb

A WOMAN HAS been charged with the murder of her six-year-old son in Co Waterford last week.

Ruth Purcell Healy, aged 37, from Bishops Field, Williamstown Road, Waterford, appeared at a special sitting of Waterford District Court tonight in relation to the case.

Matthew Healy died following an incident near a seaside cove in the area of Rathmoylan near Dunmore East on 8 or 9 February last.

Detective Garda David Shore of Waterford Garda Station told the court that the accused was arrested just after 6pm this evening on “suspicion of murder” of Matthew Healy.

At 6.38pm Ruth Purcell Healy was provided a copy of the charge sheet and cautioned.

Shore told the court that when the accused was asked if she had any response, she replied: “No thank you.”

Inspector Shay Keevans applied for a remand in custody which was granted by Judge Kevin Staunton.

The judge remanded Ruth Purcell Healy in custody to Limerick prison until 20 February, when she will appear again via video link.

The accused, who appeared in court wearing a purple jumper and black pants, did not speak during tonight’s brief hearing.

Judge Staunton asked if there were “any concerns” regarding the accused.

Solicitor Ken Cunningham, appearing for the accused, responded and requested that Ruth Purcell Healy receive a psychiatric evaluation in custody.