Three members of the "Real IRA" were today beginning 30-year jail terms in Britain for plotting a bombing campaign.
The men - trapped trying to buy arms in an undercover MI5 sting last year - were "at or near the heart" of the organisation, Woolwich Crown Court heard.
Sentencing Fintan Paul O'Farrell (39), Declan John Rafferty (42), and Michael Christopher McDonald (44), all from Co Louth, Mr Justice Astill said: "Whatever justification you can find in your hearts and minds for the killing and maiming, it's the duty of these courts to reflect the public revulsion for the suffering and grief you impose on the innocent."
All three pleaded guilty last Thursday to conspiracy to cause an explosion in the UK or Republic of Ireland and trying to obtain weapons and explosives.
They were arrested last July following an elaborate six months operation led by MI5.
PA