Former Fianna Fáil councillor charged with harassment of female waiting on DPP directions

Olivia Kelleher

A former Fianna Fáil councillor has appeared in court charged with the harassment of a female.

Joseph O’Donovan, formerly known as Gary O’Flynn, appeared before Cork District Court on Wednesday charged with one count of harassment. The alleged offence occurred on three dates between July 30th and August 6th, 2022 .

The alleged offence is contrary to Section 10 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997.

The DPP has directed summary disposal of the matter.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer made an application for statements in the case which was granted.

Judge Mary Dorgan adjourned the case to March 12th next.

Mr O'Donovan, with an address at Melvindale House, Coolowen, Blarney, Co Cork, was remanded on bail until his next court appearance. Judge Dorgan will decide whether she will accept jurisdiction in the case on the next occasion.

Mr O’Donovan (49) is the son of former TD, Noel O’Flynn, who served in the constituency of Cork North Central from 1997 until his retirement in 2011. He recenty returned to politics at council level.

Joseph O’Donovan, when he was known as Gary O’Flynn, was a sitting councillor in Cork city from 2003 to 2008.

He took his father’s old seat on the council in 2003 when the dual mandate ban came in to force. He concluded his political career five years later with his seat going to his brother, Ken, who recently became an Independent Ireland TD in Cork North Central.

Noel O’Flynn has taken up the city council seat vacated by his son Ken.