2019-03-06 · Fermanagh
Questions about historic role of Gardai in Downey case, lawyers say
John Downey, 67, appeared before the High Court to seek leave to appeal a recent order for his extradition to Northern Ireland. He is alleged to be involved in the 1972 murder of two British Army Infantrymen, Lance Corporal Alfred Johnston and Private James Eames, in Enniskillen, as well as aiding and abetting the causing of an explosion. Downey's counsel, Garnet Orange SC, argued the case was unique, citing questions regarding the historic role of gardaí in obtaining and preserving critical evidence. Counsel also referenced "catastrophic failures" by Northern Irish authorities concerning Downey's aborted 2014 trial for the 1982 Hyde Park bombing, which collapsed due to "comfort letters" issued by the Tony Blair government. Justice Aileen Donnelly, presiding over the extradition matter, was scheduled to deliver a decision on the application for leave to appeal. The report notes that Downey is wanted to face prosecution for the alleged offences, but no final judgment on the appeal application was recorded in the text provided.