Gardaí object to bail in case involving alleged burglary at famous 'Shandon Steeple' church

Cork’s St Anne’s Church — better known as the Shandon Steeple — was the scene of an alleged burglary in the early hours of last Sunday morning.

At Cork District Court, gardaí objected to bail being granted to the 30-year-old accused.

Garda John Paul Sullivan objected to Curtis Keniry’s bail application, and described the alleged burglary and a second alleged burglary at another location an hour or so later.

He said that at 1.30am on October 11 at St Anne’s Church, entry was gained through a window that was being repaired and was partially boarded up. While inside the church, the collection boxes were smashed open and money taken. It was not known how much cash was in the collection boxes.

Garda Sullivan also gave evidence of a burglary at the Q car park, Carroll’s Quay, Cork, that allegedly occurred about an hour later, at around 2.30am. 

While inside the offices, the intruder gained entry to a locked office and an e-bike, helmet, and Q Park jacket were taken. This incident was also captured on CCTV.

Frank Buttimer, solicitor, submitted that it was a suitable case for bail.

Judge David Waters said he would grant bail to the accused man and adjourned the cases until November 9, as Sergeant David Fleming said time would be needed to get directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Judge Waters warned: “If he comes before this court again for any offence, it will be next to impossible to get bail.”