The preliminary inquiry for a Catholic priest accused of child sexual offences was adjourned at Derry Magistrates Court on Thursday after case papers were unavailable.

Father Edward Gallagher, 59, whose address was given as Orchard Park in Lifford, County Donegal, faces multiple charges. They include attempted sexual communication with a child, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, causing a child to watch sexual activity, and possessing, making and distributing indecent images of children. The alleged offences took place on dates between April 2 and April 17, 2025.

Gallagher has been in custody since his arrest in April 2025 and appeared via video link from prison. Deputy District Judge Philip Mateer told him the required papers were not available to decide whether he should be returned for trial, adding he would investigate the reason.

Defence solicitor Derwin Harvey indicated readiness to proceed, but the hearing was halted. The matter was adjourned until July 23 to resolve the paperwork issue.

Father Gallagher was ordained in 1994 and has served in parishes across the Derry Diocese, including a period as parish priest of Greencastle in County Tyrone from 2015 to 2022. He has also held appointments in Limavady, Moville and other areas in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.