Well-known Irish celebrity sent forward for trial accused of defilement of a child under 17

• Published date: 24 March 2023

The man, in his 30s, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested and charged last month following an investigation by a garda protective services unit

There was no objection to bail when he was brought before Dublin District Court on February 14; he appeared again today and was served with the prosecution's book of evidence.

Dressed in a jumper, jeans and runners, the celebrity, who cannot be named for legal reasons, stepped forward when his case was called.

State solicitor Niamh McKernan told Judge Treasa Kelly that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) consented to the accused being sent forward for trial on indictment on the three charges in the book of evidence.

She agreed with defence counsel Aislinn Finnegan that there were reporting restrictions.

Judge Kelly told the man he was being returned for trial to the Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, where the case will be listed for mention on April 20.

He was remanded on bail on his bond of €500 and must have no contact with the complainant or witnesses; the judge said that included meeting the person or using social media.

He has surrendered his passport and given gardai his phone number on which he must remain contactable, and he has to notify them in the event of a change of address.

The...