Guo Zheng Chen of 9 Belvedere Terrace, Mullingar, was arrested on August 8 at his home, where he attempted to evade arrest by jumping from a 5-metre high balcony his underwear.

The court heard from investigating Garda Shane O’Connor how the accused attempted to flee arrest by jumping from a balcony 5 metres from the ground in a state of undress.

Emergency services were called to the incident early on Sunday morning, the 28th of July, bringing it under control and stopping the spread of the fire to Main Street.

Up to 60 people remain out of work due to the fire.

Black Pearl Tattoo, Piercing and Beauty was destroyed in Sunday’s blaze, which affected 12 other businesses.

Junior Minister Dara Calleary visited the site of Sunday's blaze in Grafton Court today, to assess the damage.

The street, which is a major trading route in the town linking the Longford Shopping Centre with Main Street has remained sealed off since early Sunday morning.

The Chamber president is calling for the route to be re-opened to pedestrians as soon as possible.