Forged signature found in court filing for Dublin charity

A letter filed with the High Court bearing the name of Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh was forged, the politician stated in a release on Wednesday. The document was submitted by an employee of Liberty Recycling, a Dublin clothing charity currently under investigation by An Garda Síochána for alleged money laundering. Ó Snodaigh serves as the chair of the charity’s board.

In a personal statement, Ó Snodaigh said he learned of the letter only after it was disclosed during a court hearing. He confirmed that he did not sign the document, nor did he authorize anyone else to sign it on his behalf. He has formally complained to An Garda Síochána and requested a full investigation into the apparent forgery.

The TD stated that he had no knowledge of the alleged criminal activity taking place within the organization. He expressed shock at the specific allegations that have emerged but accepted the criticisms leveled by the Charities Regulator. The regulator identified shortcomings in the oversight and governance exercised by the directors, including Ó Snodaigh himself.

“I fully support the investigations by An Garda Síochána and the Charities Regulator. The facts must be established and anyone responsible for wrongdoing held accountable,” Ó Snodaigh said. He clarified that he is not personally under Garda investigation and that there is no suggestion he or the other trustees were aware of the alleged crimes.

Gardaí seized two luxury BMW SUVs valued at over €200,000 during raids on premises linked to the charity. Investigators also recovered a collection of high-end designer items. Liberty Recycling collects used clothing across Dublin to generate funds for disadvantaged communities and individuals recovering from addiction in the south inner city.

Ó Snodaigh explained that he agreed to chair the charity twenty years ago in a voluntary capacity. He said he has never received payment for the role. The directors have agreed to a voluntary liquidation, and the chief executive officer has been suspended without prejudice. The organization is working to secure alternative employment for staff and maintain support services for those in recovery.

The TD attempted to read his statement in the Dáil on Wednesday but was not granted permission. He released the text to the media instead, noting that his reasons for joining the board were sincere. He acknowledged that good intentions do not remove the responsibilities of a trustee and accepted his duty to answer for his role.