Revenue seeks to wind up Kerry drug-accused Nathan McDonnell's restaurant
Chief Of File Is Mcdonnell Walsh Ballyseedy Nathan Domnick Executive Restaurant Picture:
The High Court will next month hear a petition to wind up Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd, whose chief executive Nathan McDonnell faces charges over Ireland’s largest ever seizure of crystal meth earlier this year.
A notice posted on Friday said Revenue collector-general Joseph Rowley had given the petition, which is set to be heard on November 4. Mr Rowley’s function is to collect tax and implement debt management programmes, as well as enforcement action against those who fail to comply.
Revenue told outstanding creditors of Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd, in the notice in the , they can attend the High Court on that date if they wish to make a submission on the petition to wind down the company.
Mr McDonnell, 44, of Ballyroe, Tralee, is charged with having knowledge of the existence of a criminal organisation, of facilitating the commission of a serious offence by that organisation, to wit the importation, sale and supply of controlled drugs between October 16, 2023, and February 16, 2024.
He is also accused of four charges under the Misuse of Drugs Acts — of importation of the drug methylamphetamine, known as crystal meth, at Cork Port on October 16, 2023, along with possession and possession of the drug for sale or supply at Ballyseedy Garden Centre, Tralee, between October 27 and February 12, 2024.
In the wake of his arrest, Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd wrote to suppliers saying it was “unable” to pay any outstanding bills.
Suppliers were informed “with a heavy heart” that Ballyseedy Restaurant Ltd would cease trading from Sunday “due to circumstances beyond our control," in a letter sent to them this week and published by Radio Kerry.
The business would be transferred to Smaash Burger Limited, the letter said.
“However, amidst this transition, I regret to inform you that we will be unable to carry over any outstanding balances from Ballyseedy Restaurant Limited to Smaash Burger Ltd,” it said.
“We understand the impact the decision may have, and I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
In August, Mr O'Donnell was granted free legal aid by the Special Criminal Court. His case is next due for mention later this month.
His co-accused James Leen, 41, of Pilgrim Hill, Kilmorna, Listowel, Co Kerry, faces five charges. His case is listed for mention at the Special Criminal Court next week.