A former Christian Brother who faces 60 charges involving the alleged sexual abuse of 10 boys at Letterfrack reformatory in Connemara during the 1960s objected to being sent forward for trial yesterday, claiming he is prejudiced by the long delay in bringing the matter before the court.
The 62-year-old accused, who lives in Co Louth, is facing 36 charges of indecent assault and 24 charges of buggery against 10 boys between 1965 and 1967.
Defending solicitor Mr Fergus Mullen said he was opposing the service of a book of evidence on his client due to the long delay. The charges relating to the alleged incidents go back 35 to 37 years.
He said his client had been originally interviewed with regard to the allegations made against him in 1997, and there was undue delay in the case.
Judge John Garavan said similar cases involving even longer delays had come before the courts and been dealt with. He adjourned the matter for one week, when it is understood the book of evidence will be served on the accused and he will be sent forward for trial to the Circuit Criminal Court in June.
He remanded the accused on bail on his own surety of €2,700, and one independent surety of €9,000, to appear before the court again on April 7th.