Lowry to be tried for allegedly filing incorrect tax returns

Former Fine Gael minister Michael Lowry has been sent forward to the circuit court for trial on allegations that he knowingly filed incorrect tax returns.

The case against the independent TD, of Glenreigh, Holycross, Co Tipperary, was before Thurles district court for the fifth time today.

State solicitor Gerard O’Brien confirmed that the book of evidence had been served on Michael Lowry (60) and the DPP had consented that the accused be sent forward for trial on indictment to the circuit court.

The case was initially mentioned before 1pm when the accused's solicitor, Michael Collins, said his client was not present but would be in court later in the afternoon.

The state solicitor said the book of evidence could be served on Mr Lowry’s solicitor. However, Judge Elizabeth MacGrath adjourned the matter until 2.30pm. “I want the book to be served personally on the accused,” she said.

Mr Lowry arrived at the courthouse in Thurles at about 2.15pm and exchanged greetings with two men outside the building before going inside where he sat and spoke with his solicitor while waiting for the court session to resume.

He was not called on to speak during the five-minute hearing but nodded in acknowledgement when advised by Judge MacGrath that he had to furnish details of any alibi evidence he intended to rely on during his trial to the prosecution within 14 days.

Judge MacGrath formally sent him forward for trial at the next session of Nenagh Circuit Court, beginning on June 24th, on his own bail bond of €500. Mr Lowry left the court building almost immediately and was driven away in a black Audi.

He is charged with three counts of knowingly filing incorrect tax returns on October 31st, 2003 and one count of knowingly filing an incorrect tax return on August 3rd, 2007.