Posted by Sean McKiernan (43), from Trinity Bungalows, Virginia Road, Bailieborough in Cavan was charged with 58 counts of theft at various unknown locations within the State from Navan Mental Health Housing Association six years ago in 2019.
A former history-making Fine Gael chairman of Cavan County Council, who was due to be sentenced today over the theft of €172,000 from a mental health charity, will now learn his fate today.
Sean McKiernan (43), from Trinity Bungalows, Virginia Road, Bailieborough in Cavan was charged with 58 counts of theft at various unknown locations within the State from Navan Mental Health Housing Association six years ago in 2019.
The sums varied between €500 and €7,500 and the total amount involved in the theft was €172,000 which was revealed at a previous court date. McKiernan was due to stand trial in the case before a judge and jury.
However, in July he appeared before Judge John Martin at Trim Circuit Court where his counsel said “progress can be made” in the case. McKiernan was then arraigned on two sample counts 1 and 58 on the charge sheets.
On Thursday at Trim Circuit Court counsel for McKiernan made an application to have sentencing adjourned until Friday – due to a trial that is ongoing in the same courtroom.
Judge John Martin was informed that the sentencing of McKiernan “should take an hour.”
Michael Finnegan, a board member of the mental health charity, was in court and said he is “happy” his evidence and victim impact statement can be read out by the prosecuting garda on Friday on his behalf as he is unable to attend the hearing then.
Judge Martin said he is happy “to facilitate the application” for the sentencing to happen on Friday. McKiernan, who was dressed in a navy suit and white shirt, said “Thank you Judge,” after the application was granted. He has been remanded on continuing bail until Friday.
McKiernan made history in 2011 when he was elected the youngest ever chairman, or Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council.
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