Woman accused of defrauding west Belfast school

Martina Gowdy allegedly abused her position at De La Salle College to make gains for herself.

The defendant, from Blackrock Grove in Newtownabbey, appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court to face a charge of fraud.

She is accused of carrying out the offence on a date between January 1, 2011 and June 1, 2013.

Gowdy, of unknown age, accessed and used school funds without authority for her own personal use while she was expected to safeguard its financial interests, according to the charge.

No further details were disclosed in court.

During a preliminary enquiry she spoke to confirm that she understood the allegation.

Defence solicitor Paul Dougan did not contest prosecution submissions that she has a case to answer.

Gowdy declined to give evidence or call witnesses during the brief hearing.

District Judge Nigel Broderick granted an application to have the accused sent for trial at Belfast Crown Court.

Releasing her on £500 bail, Mr Broderick told her she must return when a date is set for those proceedings. ends