Courts / Wicklow / Report

Peace Commissioner (75) forged signatures when setting up glamping business, court hears

Summary

Patrick O'Connor, a 75‑year‑old Peace Commissioner, pleaded guilty to providing false information under the Companies Act for forging the signatures of two co‑directors when forming JP&P Property Limited, a shepherd hut glamping business. He claimed he had no time to obtain the signatures in person and forged them with their consent. The forged signatures were discovered by Corporate Enforcement Authority officers investigating a separate breach of the Companies Act. One of the forged signatories had been disqualified from acting as a company director. O'Connor's company never commenced trading. He has a small number of prior road traffic convictions. The case was initially before the District Court, but the judge declined jurisdiction and adjourned the matter for finalisation on 9 July. The court noted O'Connor's roles as a Peace Commissioner, architectural engineer, and local GAA and charity worker. The proceedings remain at the pleading stage.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Peace Commissioner (75) forged signatures when setting up glamping business, court hears. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

• October 2022 Hearing Or Sentence
• July 9 Adjournment
• 2025-06-24 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Road Traffic Stage Hearing Or Decision

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Read the original CNI report