A MAN who broke into Belclare church in search of money was very respectful of the church as he was raised in a certain way and was now very embarrassed by his behaviour.
This was the defence put forward for Martin McDonagh when he appeared before Judge Fiona Lydon at Galway District Court this week charged with the offence
McDonagh of 8, Droim Chaoin, Bishop O’Donnell Road, Galway was identified through the church CCTV system by investigating Gardaí. He has 235 previous convictions the Court was told.
Judge Lydon heard that Belclare church was entered on November 10 last and an attempt was made to force open the tabernacle. Damage to the value of €200 was caused to a candelabra, the property of Fr Blake, which the defendant used to try and open the tabernacle.
McDonagh appeared before the Court via video-link from prison in September. His application for bail was objected to by the Gardaí and the Judge refused and she remanded him in custody. He is serving a prison sentence for another matter until January.
McDonagh has five children and he resided with his mother. He was doing well in prison but had some medical issues to deal with, his solicitor pleaded.
He is very respectful of the Church as he was raised in a certain way and was very embarrased by his behaviour.
The Judge said that he could expect a custodial sentence because of his record and adjourned the case to consider this matter.
