PICTURE EXCLUSIVE Charity chief at a training session in Co. Louth – and, yes, it’s definitely not Malawi

Saturday, August 20

John Pepper’s team, Geraldines GFC, representing the parishes of Haggardstown and Blackrock in Louth, qualify for the final of the Cardinal O’Donnell Cup.

Friday, September 30

Geraldine Smith, the assistant national director of HSE Audit, calls Brother Donatus Forkan and asks for a meeting on Wednesday, October 5. Brother Forkan tells her he and Mr Pepper are to fly to Malawi and cannot attend. They agree an October 11 meeting.

Sunday, October 2

Brother Forkan leaves for Malawi. Mr Pepper stays home. The HSE is unaware that he did not travel.

Tuesday, October 4

Mr Pepper attends an evening training session at the Geraldines GFC grounds near his home. He has not been at his office the previous two days.

Wednesday, October 5

Day of the cancelled meeting. Mr Pepper goes to his office. Brother Forkan writes from Malawi to ask HSE to change the meeting date. He also reveals, for the first time, that Mr Pepper did not travel to Malawi.

Thursday, October 6

Mr Pepper attends a pre-final training session at Geraldines.

Saturday, October 8

Geraldines lost the Cardinal O’Donnell Cup final last night.