Courier accused of €30,000 illness benefits fraud

Edward Doherty (64) set up his own business but continued to claim welfare, court told

A 64-year-old has been accused of wrongfully claiming almost €30,000 in illness benefits payments after setting uphis own courier business.

Edward Doherty, of Belgard Crescent, Belgard Heights, Tallaght, Dublin faces charges in relation to an alleged €29,144 illness benefit fraud in 2011 and the previous year.

Dublin District Court heard he has been working as a courier but suffered a serious back injury as a result of which he was entitled to the illness benefit.

Defence counsel Beatrice Vance said that Mr Doherty then set up his own courier business to increase his income but he had significant outgoings.

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He is trying to pay back as much as possible, counsel said. He is still working and paying back €150 a month but hopes to increase the repayments. Just over €1,000 has been paid back, the court heard

Inthe district court, the offence can result in a fine of up to €2,500 and a possible six-month sentence in addition to having to repay the social welfare authorities. However, the circuit court has wider sentencing powers.

Judge Brennan said that in the circumstances it was not a matter he that could accept jurisdiction on unless the Director of Public Prosecutions was happy for it to proceed in the district court on the basis of a guilty plea.

Legal aid was granted and the case was adjourned until October.