An 83-year-old former primary school principal from Co Tipperary was sentenced to three years' imprisonment for indecently assaulting young girls over a period of 36 years. Clonmel Circuit Court heard that John Moloney, of Ardobreen, Cashel, Co Tipperary, had earlier pleaded guilty to nine out of a total of 23 charges of indecent assault against young girls aged 10, 11 and 12 years between 1946 and 1982. All except one of the offences occurred at one school.
In delivering the sentence, Judge JG Matthews said he was taking into consideration Moloney's advanced age and deteriorating physical and psycho-geriatric health. Leave to appeal was granted.
Moloney was released on bail on condition that he reside in the care of his daughter and continue to attend a clinic.