Callely to issue plea in fraud trial in October

Former minister of state Ivor Callely will indicate in October how he will plead to charges of making bogus mobile phone expense claims.

At a short hearing in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court yesterday, Mr Callely's counsel asked that an arraignment date be set.

Judge Martin Nolan put the matter in for October 15th.

If the former Fianna Fail politician pleads not guilty, a date will be set for trial which will likely take place in late 2014 or early 2015.

Mr Callely (54) of St Lawrence, Clontarf, Dublin, faces six counts related to using six invoices, from three phone companies, as false instruments at Leinster House for receipt of expenses for handsets and equipment, under the Oireachtas members direct purchase mobile phone scheme in November 2007, February 2008 and from September to December 2009.

Judge Nolan told the parties in the case that all disclosure should be completed by the October date and remanded Mr Callely on continuing bail.