Challenges by Kevin Lunney accused may delay trial

Four men facing charges of false imprisonment and assault in connection with an incident involving Quinn Industrial Holdings director Kevin Lunney are expected to delay their trial through High Court challenges to the Special Criminal Court's jurisdiction. The trial had been scheduled for January 2021 at the Special Criminal Court in Dublin. One defendant has already been granted leave to bring judicial review proceedings, while the other three accused have adopted the same position. Counsel for the Director of Public Prosecutions indicated that the judicial review process could conclude within days, though appeals are anticipated regardless of outcome. The Special Criminal Court, presiding over the matter, acknowledged that even a successful State application would likely result in further appeals. The case concerns allegations relating to an incident at Drumbrade, Ballinagh, County Cavan on 17 September 2019. The matter was adjourned for mention on 16 November 2020 to establish a revised position.