Wexford church organist facing child pornography charges

A church organist, music teacher and choir master has appeared before Wexford District Court on child pornography charges.

Eanna McKenna (38) of College Green, Summerhill, Wexford town, is accused of knowingly possessing child pornography for the purpose of distribution, publication, exportation, sale or show on a date or dates unknown between November 26th, 2010, and March 13th, 2011.

He was further charged with having 521 images of child pornography on a computer in his possession on June 12th last year, along with 167 videos of child pornography.

Formal evidence of arresting and charging Mr McKenna was given by Sgt Stephen Ennis.

Sgt Ennis told the court the accused man had no comment when the charges, which were brought under the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act, 1988, were put to him.

The prosecution sought a six-week adjournment for preparation of the book of evidence, indicating the case will be referred to the Circuit Court for hearing.

No objection was offered to the granting of bail, subject to conditions which had been agreed with the defence.

The accused was required to sign on each Monday at Wexford Garda station. He was also ordered not to have any contact with State witnesses in the case.

Sgt Ennis said the accused had handed over his passport.

Defence solicitor Lisa McDonald said there was no difficulty with any of the conditions being imposed by the court.

Mr McKenna was remanded on continuing bail to appear at the October sitting of the court.