Former An Post employee remanded in custody after pleading guilty to stealing mail at Cork delivery unit

A former An Post employee was today remanded in custody for sentencing at the end of the month for stealing post during his employment.

Michael Ryan of Ross Street, Killavullen, pleaded guilty to theft of post at the An Post delivery service unit at Carrignagroher, Fermoy, Co Cork, and to related charges of possessing stolen post and interference with post — all offences relating to a period in November 2023.

Garda Eoin O’Callaghan confirmed at Cork Circuit Criminal Court that the 39-year-old had co-operated in full with the Garda investigation.

Garda O’Callaghan told prosecution barrister Suzanne Gorey that the accused told gardaí he had taken the post for money.

Many of the envelopes were colourful, suggesting they contained greeting cards. The garda said it was not possible to quantify the total financial loss.

Emmet Boyle, defence barrister, said: 

“He is deeply sorry and disgusted with himself for ruining a fine job that he had at this time.”

Mr Boyle said the accused had borrowed €3,000 from loan sharks and that this debt soon became €6,000.

He said that the defendant faced serious threats to pay the debt if he did not want to see his house being burned down.

Judge Helen Boyle said that while it was a breach of trust with his employer, it was a more particular breach of trust with the public, who rely upon the honesty with which the postal service operates.

“I will think about this. I think this man has to spend time in custody,” Judge Boyle said.

Ryan’s sentencing was adjourned until June 30 and he was remanded in custody until then.

The judge said she was making no promises about what she would do when she finalises the case at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.