A former solicitor has pleaded guilty to stealing almost €3 million from his clients. Ruairi O'Ceallaigh (42) carried out the thefts while he worked at his father's practice in north Dublin between July 2006 and May 2010.

Mr. O'Ceallaigh, with an address at Collegeland, Summerhill in Co. Meath was arrested last month and charged with seven offences under the Theft and Fraud Act.

He was granted bail after his elderly father, who set up the family run business in Phibsboro, stepped in as an independent surety.

The book of evidence was due to be served on him today but the court heard he has decided to enter a plea.

He will now be sentenced for stealing around €2.8 million from various client accounts at his family's firm.

The amounts range from €75,000 to €1.5 million, and the charge sheet names seven victims.

Mr. O'Ceallaigh was remanded on continuing bail today and he is due to be sentenced in February.