Girl injured in Parnell Sq attack making 'great progress'

The young girl who was seriously injured in a knife attack on Parnell Square in Dublin last year has made "great progress", her family has said, adding that they are on the "home stretch for home".

In an update on a GoFundMe page, the family said she "still manages to bolster a smile, even when crying".

The now six-year-old was one of three children who were injured in the stabbing outside Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East on 23 November 2023.

In September, the girl was discharged from hospital and began rehabilitation.

The family said that she has had to "relearn being a child, with extreme limitations".

"She cannot move or communicate as she used to, so she has to understand the meaning of patience.

"It takes a lot out of her to lift her arms, but she is a warrior and she does it.

"She has made great progress, and we don't wish her to stop. Only time will truly tell," the family said in the message.

"Some people with acquired brain injuries have still shown change and improvement up to ten years later. We've got time."

The family also thanked supporters for their support over the last 12 months.

A woman in her 30s, who was acting as a carer, was also injured in the attack.

A 50-year-old man has been charged with the attempted murder of the three children and causing serious harm to the care worker.

Riad Bouchaker, of no fixed abode, remains in custody awaiting trial.