Pensioner in court on child sex charge

A 70-year-old man appeared at Castlebar District Court this morning on a child sex assault charge.

The accused, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested on Monday at Mount Street, Claremorris.

He was brought to Claremorris Garda Station where he was later charged with an offence under the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998 that he did take, restrain or restrict the personal liberty of a child for the purposes of sexual exploitation.

The offence carries a potential 14-year prison sentence.

Garda Orla Browne told Judge Mary Devins that when charged, the accused replied: “Nothing to say. You need to speak to my solicitor.”

Bail was objected to by Inspector Tom Calvey who said he believed the accused posed a significant flight risk.

The accused, who was represented by Mr. Tom Walsh, solicitor, told the court under oath he was prepared to surrender his passport and had €2,000 available for bail purposes. He also said his permanent residence was in Co. Mayo.

After hearing garda evidence, Judge Devins said there was sufficient grounds for her to refuse bail.

She remanded the accused in custody to Harristown Cout (Castlerea Prison) on Friday (April 22).

The judge deferred an application for legal aid.

Inspector Calvey told the court the question of further charges is being considered.