Man in his 60s faces trial on 59 historic sex charges

A man in his 60s will go on trial over 59 alleged historical sex offences.

The man from West Donegal has been served with a book of evidence.

The accused man, who cannot be named for legal reasons at this time, appeared before Falcarragh District Court on Wednesday morning.

Twenty of the 59 charges relate to alleged incidents of indecent assault with the others alleged incidents of sexual assault, all of which date from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s at locations in County Donegal.

There are various alleged victims in the case.

Sergeant John Gallagher gave evidence of serving the book of evidence on the man at Letterkenny courthouse.

Inspector Seamus McGonigle informed the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has consented for the accused to be forward for trial to the next sitting of Letterkenny Circuit Court, which commences on April 23, 2024.

All 59 charges are contained within the book of evidence.

Judge Éiteáin Cunningham made an order returning the man for trial and administered the alibi warning.

The accused is represented by solicitor Mr Frank Dorrian. Mr Dorrian requested that two legal counsel be assigned in the case and this was granted by Judge Cunningham.

The man was granted bail on his own bond of 300. He must reside at a named address and notify An Garda Siochana of any change of address. He must be of good character and commit no offence while on bail and is to have no contact whatsoever, either directly or indirectly, with any witnesses in the case.

A publication order remains in place meaning the man cannot be named in order to protect the identity of the alleged victims in the case.