'Slab' Murphy tax evasion case put back

A prominent republican facing tax evasion charges had his case moved back until December today as he continues a long-running…

A prominent republican facing tax evasion charges had his case moved back until December today as he continues a long-running battle to stop his trial.

Thomas "Slab" Murphy appeared in Dublin's Special Criminal Court over nine charges which were first brought against him nearly three years ago.

The alleged former IRA chief of staff is taking legal action against the State in the High Court because he was sent for trial to the special three-judge, non-jury court.

The court usually deals with terrorism-related offences, but the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) can decide if an ordinary court is not adequate to deal with a case.

Tony McGillicuddy, for Mr Murphy, told the court his team needs time to prepare relevant applications after receiving the state's defence in relation to the constitution challenge.

Mr Justice Paul Butler, presiding, set a date of December 21st for the next mention of the case.

Mr Murphy, of Ballybinaby, Hackballscross, Co Louth, also had the conditions of his bail altered with the agreement of the DPP.

The 60-year-old, who was present in court for the brief hearing, will have to sign on at a garda station twice instead of three times a week.

Prosecutors claim Mr Murphy failed to furnish a return of his income, profits or gains to the Collector General or the Inspector of Taxes for the years 1996-97 to 2004.

The case was brought after an investigation by the Criminal Assets Bureau.

PA