Michael Lowry sent forward for trial on tax charges

Former Fine Gael minister Michael Lowry has been sent forward to the Circuit Court for trial on allegations that he knowingly filed incorrect tax returns.

The case against Mr Lowry (60), an Independent TD, Glenreigh, Holycross, Co Tipperary, was before Thurles District Court for the fifth time yesterday.

State solicitor Gerard O'Brien confirmed that the book of evidence had been served on Mr Lowry and the Director of Public Prosecutions had consented that he be sent forward for trial on indictment to the Circuit Court.

The case was initially mentioned before 1pm when Mr Lowry’s solicitor, Michael Collins, said his client was not present but would be in court later in the afternoon. Mr O’Brien said the book of evidence could be served on his solicitor.

However, Judge Elizabeth MacGrath adjourned the matter until 2.30pm. “I want the book to be served personally on the accused,” she said.

Alibi evidence
Mr Lowry arrived at the courthouse in Thurles at about 2.15pm.

He was not called on to speak during the five-minute hearing but nodded in acknowledgement when advised by Judge MacGrath that he had to furnish details of any alibi evidence he intended to rely on during his trial to the prosecution within 14 days.

The judge formally sent him forward for trial at the next session of Nenagh Circuit Court, beginning on June 24th, on his own bail bond of €500. Mr Lowry is charged with three counts of knowingly filing incorrect tax returns on October 31st, 2003, and one count of knowingly filing an incorrect tax return on August 3rd, 2007.