Developer diverted $13m, court hears

A Cork developer unlaw-fully diverted over $13m (€9.6m) for his own benefit from $50m funds paid towards the completion of a luxury resort in the Caribbean, it has been claimed in the High Court.

It was alleged that Padraig O’Halloran, aged 42, of Shippool, Innishannon, Co Cork, misappropriated the funds and various payments were made by his firm to Irish bank accounts, along with €120,000 and $72,000 to Weddings by Franc and €20,000 to Adare Manor.

Harlequin Property SVG Ltd, and Harlequin Hotels and Resorts Ltd, the owners and operators of the luxury resort in Buccament Bay, St Vincent and the Grenadines, have brought an action claiming Mr O’Halloran also bought a property in Ireland; properties and businesses in the Caribbean; a $1.5m private jet; a grand piano for his girlfriend; dental work; and other items of personal expenditure.