Former Junior Minister and Fianna Fáil TD Ivor Callely has been sent forward for trial on 6 charges of making false mobile phone expense claims at Leinster House.
The 54-year-old appeared in District Court one at the Criminal Courts of Justice where the book of evidence was served on him this morning.
It is alleged the 6 offences took place on dates between November 2007 and December of 2009 when Mr. Callely was a member of the Seanad. The charges against him have been brought under the Theft and Fraud Offences Act and carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and/or a fine.
The former politician with an address at St. Lawrence's Road in Clontarf sat with his solicitor at the back of the court until his case was called and he came forward to the dock.
Judge Ann Ryan asked if the 54-year-old, who is on bail would be applying for legal aid. His barrister John Moher, BL, replied 'not today'.
Dressed in a brown suit, cream-coloured shirt and patterned tie, Mr. Callely nodded when Judge Ryan warned him that if he wished to rely on an alibi he would have to give notice to the prosecution within 14 days.
He is facing trial on indictment at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court and will make his first appearance there on May 15th next.
Mr. Callely - centre, with his legal team - was greeted by the media as he left court today.
