Gerry O'Mahony, chairman of the Irish Athletics Boxing Association, says he is prepared to step down as chairman ahead of his trial next month on sexual assault charges stemming from an incident that allegedly took place in a County Waterford pub more than 10 years ago.
The allegation against O'Mahony, who was elected IABA president in July 2022, is that at an unknown date between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010, he sexually assaulted a woman at The Village Inn, Strandside, Abbeyside, Dungarvan.
The offence contravenes section 2 of the Criminal Law (Rape) (Amendment) Act 1990 as amended by section 37 of the Sexual Offenders Act 2001.
The case was last heard at Waterford Circuit Court on May 29. O'Mahony, who is currently out on bail, is due to appear at the same court on July 2 to face trial in front of a jury.
O'Mahony, who will also attend next month's Olympics as an IABA Goodwill Ambassador, told The Irish Times on Wednesday he was prepared to step down from both roles ahead of the trial.
“If that's the best course of action, then of course I'll stand aside at least until that's over,” he said.
O'Mahony said he intends to plead not guilty to the charges when he goes to trial next month.
In a statement, IABA said it only recently learned of the allegations: “IABA has only recently become aware of IABA President Gerry O'Mahony's name and that he is the subject of recent media articles implicating him in litigation,” it said.
“Gerry O'Mahony has offered to step down from his roles as IABA president until these matters are resolved, including all functions domestically and internationally.”
“We are mindful of the presumption of innocence of each individual and will not be making any further media comments regarding this matter, which is currently before the courts.”
Four Irish boxers have qualified for the upcoming Paris Olympics after winning qualifying matches in Bangkok on Sunday, bringing the number of Irish boxers competing at the Olympics to a record ten.
Boxing at the Paris 2024 Olympics will take place from July 28 to August 10.
