Concerns are raised over disclosure by MI5 in dissident case

A SOLICITOR acting for one of the high profile dissident republicans charged as part of ‘Operation Arbacia’ has told a court that they have yet to receive an assurance from MI5 on meeting a key date for receiving information on the case.

Four high profile dissident republicans from Tyrone are among those who were arrested earlier this year as part of the effort to neutralise the New IRA.

Sharon Jordan (45) of Cappagh Road, Dungannon is charged with belonging to a proscribed organisation, directing a terrorist organisation and two counts of the preparation of terrorist acts.

A hearing at Dungannon Magistrates Court was told that the case was a ‘relatively straightforward one’ and that they hoped the timetable for the disclosure of information would be adhered to.

However, defence solicitor, Peter Corrigan, said that there had been correspondence between the defence and both the PSNI and MI5.

He said that the PSNI had indicated that they were prepared to meet the deadline for disclosure set out in the case of next month.

But he added that no such assurance had so far been received from MI5, and that this was causing the defence some concern.

He said that the non-compliance with the timetable for the completion of disclosure would have an impact in relation to bail for any of the defendants involved in the case.

He added that legislation required that all material generated in the investigation is retained, including all evidence in its original format.

Concern was also expressed about information in relation to the investigation which had appeared in the media during recent months.

However, the Public Prosecution Service said that these disclosures were ‘nothing to do with them’.

The District Judge in the case said that the PPS appeared to be adhering to the timetable as set out, and that he did not see any delays as yet.

The case was adjourned until December 9 next for a further update.