Former Fine Gael councillor Dr Bill Tormey has been sent forward for trial, accused of possessing child pornography images and helping to bring an illegal immigrant into the country.
The 73-year-old of Glasnevin Avenue, Glasnevin, Dublin 11 was served with a book of evidence today.
He has been remanded on bail to appear before court in February.
On The Hard Shoulder, court reporter Tom Tuite explained what has gone on in the case so far.
Two offences
“This was day two of the court proceedings,” he said.
“The doctor and former councillor appeared in court, he is charged with two offenses.
“One is under the Illegal Immigrants Trafficking Act, and that alleges that on August 4th, 2021 at terminal one of Dublin Airport he had facilitated an illegal immigrant to enter the state to seek asylum.
“A second alleged offense relates to June 6th, 2022 and in this instance, it is alleged he knowingly had seven images of child pornography at his home address.”
No plea yet
The former councillor has yet to enter a plea to charge, Mr Tuite said.
“Today's hearing was to mark the next significant procedural step in the case,” he said.
“The book of evidence was served by a Garda National Immigration Bureau Sergeant and the judge then granted a trial order sending the case forward to the circuit court in the CCJ.”
Bail
Mr Tuite said there was no objection to bail for Dr Tormey.
“The judge told him that he must continue to obey bail conditions and he will appear again on February 14th, when the case will probably be listed for mention at that stage,” he said.
“There's been no plea indicated, but in the meantime, he still has to obey bail conditions.
“He's already surrendered his passport and he's been told not to apply for further travel documents, and he must have no contact directly or indirectly with any witnesses.”
Mr Tuite said for the last “couple of decades” Dr Tormey has been a “prominent media commentator and talking head on health issues”.
Former Fine Gael councillor and doctor Bill Tormey. 6/4/2006 Photo: RollingNews.ie
