Lowry to face three new tax return charges

Three new charges relating to the alleged filing of incorrect tax returns have been laid against independent TD Michael Lowry, who is due to be tried before a judge and jury in relation to the accusations.

Mr Lowry, of Glenreigh, Holycross, Co Tipperary, was not in Thurles District Court yesterday when the case against him was mentioned, but was represented by solicitor Michael Collins.

The former Fine Gael minister was initially charged in December with knowingly filing an incorrect tax return on Oct 21, 2003, but three more charges have since been preferred against him. Two of those also relate to the alleged filing of incorrect tax returns on Oct 21, 2003, while the third alleges that he knowingly filed an incorrect return on Aug 3, 2007.

The court heard yesterday the case will be dealt with by way of trial on indictment, meaning it will eventually be sent forward to the circuit court and heard by a jury.

State solicitor for North Tipperary Gerard O’Brien said yesterday the DPP wanted the case put back to Feb 25 to allow for the completion of a Book of Evidence. This was on consent, Mr Lowry’s solicitor agreed.

However, Judge Elizabeth MacGrath said she was not prepared to allow the matter go beyond the statutory 42 days without being mentioned in court in the meantime, and the case was adjourned until Feb 4.

The judge said that, if the Book of Evidence is not ready on that date, a further application can be made.

Afterwards, Mr Lowry’s solicitor told reporters outside the courthouse that he could not discuss the case.