Museum witnesses expected as Offaly judge schedules court hearing
Man accused of possessing brooches, coin fragments and other items contrary to National Monuments Act
A COURT hearing has been scheduled in relation to an allegation that a man had a number of items contrary to the National Monuments Act.
Sean Mangan (72), Knockmore, Tyrrellspass, is alleged to have had objects in his possession or under his control at Knockmore, Tyrrellspass on June 9 last year.
Among the objects included in the charges brought against Mr Mangan are possession or control of up to four copper alloy buckles, a number of silver coin fragments, penannular brooches, two charges of possessing a copper alloy seal matrix and the possession of harness mounts of pendants.
It is alleged the accused man had the archaeological objects which had been found in the state and he failed to report them to the Director of the National Museum of Ireland.
Brian Duffy, solicitor for Mr Mangan, told Tullamore District Court that a hearing would be required and indicated that matter could take half a day.
Sergeant Brendan Kearns, court presenter, said witnesses from the National Museum will be present for the hearing.
When the case had previously come before the court in June, Judge Andrew Cody was told the DPP had directed the matter could be disposed of summarily, meaning it could be heard in the District Court.
An order was also made requiring the prosecution evidence to be disclosed to Mr Duffy.
A hearing is required when a plea of guilty is not entered.
Judge Cody scheduled the hearing for November 2 next.
(Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme)