'Taxpayer down €20k' - Mother-of-four gets suspended sentence for fraudulent activity

A MOTHER-OF-FOUR was prosecuted before Newcastle West Court for social welfare “fraudulent activity” amounting to €20,774.

Lydie Mambouana, of Chestnut Grove, Newcastle West pleaded guilty to two offences - failure to inform the Minister of Social Protection of a change in circumstances and making a statement that she knew to be false.

The offences came to light in July 2020. 

State solicitor Aidan Judge, representing the minister, said the “fraudulent activity” amounted to €20,774.

A sum of €820 has been paid back with the balance being €19,954.

Michael O’Donnell, solicitor for Ms Mambouana, said his client’s circumstances are not good. 

“She has four children - three in college, one abroad and one in Cork. The daughter’s studies in Cork are going to cost €8,000,” said Mr O’Donnell.

The solicitor said Ms Mambouana is still in receipt of social welfare and is paying back €20 a week.

Having heard details of the offence, Judge Carol Anne Coolican said she was considering adjourning matters for one year to allow the defendant to continue to repay the State.

However, Mr Judge said the Minister for Social Protection doesn’t want the courts used as a debt collection service.

“The taxpayer is down €20,000,” said Mr Judge.

Judge Coolican imposed a one month prison sentence which she suspended for one year.

“There is no point in fining her when she owes the State €20,000 already,” commented Judge Coolican.