Bail move in `Real IRA' case opposed

A farmer from Co Louth, who was refused bail in the Special Criminal Court where he was described as a leading member of the "…

A farmer from Co Louth, who was refused bail in the Special Criminal Court where he was described as a leading member of the "Real IRA", yesterday applied to the High Court for bail. The application is opposed by the Garda.

Mr Liam Campbell, (38), of Upper Faughart, Dundalk, was charged with membership of Eireann, otherwise the Irish Republican Army, otherwise the "Real IRA" on October 3rd last.

Mr George Birmingham SC, for the DPP, said Mr Campbell's trial was fixed for the Special Criminal Court on October 3rd next, which was the earliest possible date.

Mr Hugh Hartnett SC, for Mr Campbell, said the maximum sentence that could be imposed on the charge was seven years. Det Supt Peter Maguire told Mr Justice Quirke that on October 3rd last, gardai searched Mr Campbell's residence and found space for a bunker under the floor of the hallway.

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The gardai found two walkie-talkie radios, two CB radios, three mobile phones and two bundles of cash amounting to £2,000 sterling.

The hearing continues today.