A man has appeared in court charged with using “threatening and abusive language” towards President Michael D. Higgins.

Derek Byrne of Streamville Road, Kilbarrack in Dublin is alleged to have committed the public order offence at a protest outside a school in Finglas in Dublin in April.

His solicitor said it would be a “complex” case involving freedom of speech and questions arose as to whether President Higgins could be called to give evidence.

Mr. Byrne is due back in court at the end of the month.