Dromore priest pleads not guilty to further historic sex offences

A TYRONE priest is to stand trial for historic sexual abuse charges against a number of males, which began with two complainants but has now increased to five after further reports in recent months which have now been joined to the original matters.

Canon Patrick McEntee (70), from Esker Road, Dromore, requested a leave of absence in 2022 while a serious safeguarding investigation was carried out.

Last year, he was charged with sexual offences against two males which allegedly occurred in the County Fermanagh area.

He denies four counts of indecently assaulting one complainant on dates between 1988 and 1989.

There is also a single count of indecently assaulting another complainant between 1980 and 1981.

However after entering not guilty pleas to these charges earlier this year, Dungannon Crown Court was informed further complainants had since come forward and an additional case was in the system.

These were joined to the existing case today (Tuesday) where Canon McEntee denied a further four counts of indecent assault against three males – two counts against one and single counts against the other two.

Offending is alleged to have occurred on various dates between 1978 and 1987.

Judge Richard Greene remanded Cannon McEntee on continuing bail of £500 and banned him from all contact with the complainants and any person aged under 16.

The case will return to court on October 1, when a trial date is to be fixed.