Museum witnesses expected as Offaly judge schedules court hearing

Man accused of possessing brooches, coin fragments and other items contrary to National Monuments Act

Published 4th Sep 2026, 18:00 BST Hearing scheduled for Tullamore District Court | Tribune Pictures Man accused of possessing brooches, coin fragments and other items contrary to National Monuments Act Sign up to our Offaly Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Offaly Live within your account.

A COURT hearing has been scheduled in relation to an allegation that a man had a number of items contrary to the National Monuments Act.

Sean Mangan (72), Knockmore, Tyrrellspass, is alleged to have had objects in his possession or under his control at Knockmore, Tyrrellspass on June 9 last year.

Among the objects included in the charges brought against Mr Mangan are possession or control of up to four copper alloy buckles, a number of silver coin fragments, penannular brooches, two charges of possessing a copper alloy seal matrix and the possession of harness mounts of pendants.

It is alleged the accused man had the archaeological objects which had been found in the state and he failed to report them to the Director of the National Museum of Ireland.

Tourist attraction near Offaly border attracts 10,000 people annually Brian Duffy , solicitor for Mr Mangan, told Tullamore District Court that a hearing would be required and indicated that matter could take half a day.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns, court presenter, said witnesses from the National Museum will be present for the hearing.

When the case had previously come before the court in June, Judge Andrew Cody was told the DPP had directed the matter could be disposed of summarily, meaning it could be heard in the District Court.

An order was also made requiring the prosecution evidence to be disclosed to Mr Duffy.