Ex-Sinn Fein press officer Michael McMonagle sentenced to nine months in prison over child sex offences

Judge Neil Rafferty stated, 'The severity of the offenses cannot be minimized. The court must prioritize the welfare of potential victims over the defendant’s claims of media bias.'

Mr. Mallon KC argued, 'There should be nothing eclipsing the truth of the case, emphasizing that my client never met or communicated with a child directly, which is crucial to understanding the charges.'

Mallon claimed his client was a victim of a 'media witch hunt', stating that public figures had politicized the case, leading to significant personal and social repercussions for McMonagle.

The judge referred to the psychiatric report, rejecting the defense's narrative, saying, 'This court exists to protect society from potential harm, regardless of public perception or political affiliations.'

Read at Irish Independent