Social welfare fraud case deferred over lack of legal representation

A man prosecuted for claiming unemployment benefits while working had his case at Navan District Court postponed because he had no solicitor.

Social welfare fraud case deferred over lack of legal representation

A fraud prosecution involving a man who allegedly claimed unemployment payments while employed has been put back at Navan District Court after he appeared without a lawyer.

Keith Stapleton, of Blackwater Close in Enfield, faces multiple charges relating to social welfare offences from 2023. Prosecutors say he collected Jobseeker's Allowance during periods when he was in fact working. He had previously been convicted in his absence on 19 September 2025 but was present in court on Friday for the matter to be dealt with.

However, the defence solicitor informed Judge Eirinn McKiernan that he could no longer act for the accused. The prosecution, led by Liam Keane, indicated that one of the claims involved €5,280 in overpayments, while a separate earlier matter concerned around €9,000. The total sum outstanding across all counts is €14,376.

After reviewing a probation report, the judge asked whether any repayments had been made. When it became clear the defendant had no legal representation, Judge McKiernan said she could not proceed and adjourned the case until 24 July.

Source: Meath Chronicle

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