The trial of the former chief executive of a public body charged with corruption in public office began yesterday at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.
James Brennan (58), Rockgrove, Midleton, Co Cork, was charged with 14 separate counts in relation to alleged corruption while he worked for the South Cork Enterprise Board (SCEB).
The offences are alleged to have occurred on dates from December 1996 to May 1999.
The charges come under two separate pieces of legislation - the Public Bodies Corrupt Practices Act 1889 and the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995.
Yesterday Mr Brennan pleaded not guilty to the charges.
He is alleged to have obtained £9,000 as favours for obtaining a grant for a company. The payments allegedly ranged from £250 to £2,000 over a four-year period - each payment allegedly being 10 per cent of the overall grant.
Tom Creed, SC, for the State, said the "case was about corrupt payments in its simplest form".
He told the jury that during the case they would hear details of the work of the enterprise board.
"You will hear that they support micro-businesses with less than 10 employees. If the company wants to expand they can get a grant to enlarge. The enterprise board also advises businesses," he said.
According to the prosecution, Mr Brennan lined his pockets with 10 per cent of each grant for Celtic Shades, a company operated by businessman Pat Collins.
Mr Creed said Mr Collins had spoken to Mr Brennan in relation to gaining assistance from the SCEB. He was told he would have to submit a business plan, and was advised on the best way to get a grant.
Mr Brennan told Mr Collins "give me 10 per cent of the grant and I'll guarantee it", Mr Creed said.
"Those who are employed in a public body are not supposed to do that," added Mr Creed.
He said entries in a filofax would show the paper trail of each deposit.
The trial continues at Cork Circuit Criminal Court today before Judge Patrick Moran and a jury.