A FÁS executive has been charged with 47 counts of defrauding the State training agency of more than €600,000.
James Brooke-Tyrell (53), Church Road, Greystones, Co Wicklow, was brought before Dublin District Court yesterday morning.
He was charged with 47 counts of deception by manufacturing a false tender while in his position as assistant video production manager in Fás, at Upper Baggot Street, Dublin, resulting in cheques being issued into accounts in the name of Yard Media, controlled by Mr Brooke-Tyrell, from 2002 to 2008.
The charges, under the Theft and Fraud Offences Act, also state that this was allegedly “with the intention of making a gain for yourself and causing a loss to another”.
Det Garda Alan Browne told Judge Ann Ryan that Mr Brooke-Tyrell said “no reply I have nothing to say” when he was charged yesterday morning.
State solicitor Kevin Ennis told Judge Ryan that the DPP had directed “the matter proceed on indictment” which means the case is to be sent forward to the Circuit Court. He sought a six week remand for the book of evidence to be served.
In reply to a query by Judge Ryan as to the value of the money involved in the case, Det Garda Browne replied, “just over €600,000”. Mr Brooke-Tyrell, who was wearing a dark overcoat and a black suit, sat with his hands clasped and remained silent during his court appearance.
Defence solicitor Pearse Mehigan said his client had met the arresting garda by appointment at the Bridewell Garda station in Dublin.
He said Ted Crowley, the defendant’s father-in-law, who was present, would act as the independent surety. Mr Crowley then stepped forward and shook hands with the accused.
Mr Crowley confirmed that he understood he could lose his surety money if the defendant failed to attend his next court appearance.
The prosecuting garda said he had no objection to Mr Crowley acting as a bail person.
Judge Ryan granted Mr Brooke-Tyrell bail in his own bond of €1,000 with the independent surety in the sum of €10,000.
The State solicitor said a condition was being sought to have the defendant “surrender his passport forthwith”.
However, Mr Mehigan, defending, said that had already been done. Judge Ryan then ordered Mr Brooke-Tyrell not to apply for travel documents.
An application for legal aid was granted after Judge Ryan was told that the arresting garda had no objection.
Judge Ryan then remanded Mr Brooke-Tyrell to appear again on November 17th when the book of evidence is to be served.