‘Substantial progress’ in priest case, which involves a ‘large number of offences’

There has been 'substantial progress’ in the case of a former Inishowen Parish Priest facing a series of child sex offences, Derry Magistrate's Court has heard this morning, Thursday, April 23.

Fr Edward Gallagher (58), of Orchard Park in Lifford, had been charged with one count of attempted sexual communication with a child on dates between April 2 and April 17 2025, and seven further offences, including inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and causing a child to watch sexual activity on April 17 last year.

He also faces charges of possessing indecent images of children.

At the latest sitting of Derry Magistrate's Court, a prosecutor told the court that the Public Prosecution Service had received a full file, but there was a large number of offences to be directed.

She said that an adjournment of four weeks was required for a decision and for files to be prepared for case preparation before a date can be set for a Preliminary Enquiry in the case.

Defence solicitor Derwin Harvey said that this was substantial progress in the case.

The case will next be mentioned on May 21, and Fr Gallagher remains in custody.

Fr Gallagher, who was parish priest in Moville from 2022 until 2024, remains suspended from ministry. Most recently, he served as a curate at the Clonleigh, Camus and Leckpatrick parishes.