Keg bomb prisoner seeks early release

William Burns, held at Loughan House Open Centre in Co Cavan, has challenged the Minister for Justice's refusal to grant him enhanced remission from his prison sentence. Burns was convicted by the Special Criminal Court in 2016 of unlawfully possessing explosive substances, including PETN, RDX, and ammonium nitrate, along with an adapted Guinness keg and detonation equipment discovered at Kilcurry Church, Co Louth in May 2014. He received a seven-year sentence with the final three years suspended. The Minister declined Burns's application for one-third remission in April, citing the gravity of the offence, despite acknowledging his constructive engagement in prison activities. Burns's legal representatives argue the refusal is flawed and breaches his constitutional and human rights protections. They contend the Minister failed to consider his reintegration prospects and provide adequate reasoning. Burns would be released immediately under enhanced remission; otherwise, his scheduled release is June. The High Court granted permission for the challenge to proceed, with the matter returning before the court later that week.