Married couple and husband's parents to face €250K money laundering trial

Patrick McDonald (32), his wife Martina McDonald (30), his father Michael McDonald (51) and mother Margaret McDonald (51) were arrested following a three-year investigation by detectives.

They appeared before Blanchardstown District Court charged with money laundering offences.

It is alleged they operated bank accounts in An Post and Allied Irish Bank which were used to conceal the proceeds of crime.

Detective Garda Gary Farrell said the amounts related to an estimated €220,000 in bank accounts and an estimated €110,000 which was seized in a safe deposit box.

A state solicitor said the book of evidence had been served on the accused, who go forward to the next sittings of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Defence solicitor Conor Ruane said Patrick and Martina McDonald, of Allendale Grove in Clonsilla, were about to be made homeless and Mr McDonald had a work opportunity in the UK.

He asked the judge to vary Martina McDonald's weekly sign-on condition so she could travel to the UK with her husband.

Gda Farrell objected, citing the seriousness of the charges.

Judge David McHugh refused to vary bail.

As part of their bail conditions, Michael and Margaret McDonald must sign on once a week.