Courts / Donegal / Report

Lawyers 'concerned' over wait for evidence 20 years on from Denis Donaldson murder

Date
2026-07-27
Stage
Charge Or Pretrial
Primary locality
Donegal
County
Donegal

Summary

Lawyers for Antoin Duffy, accused of the murder of former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson, expressed concern over the delay in serving the book of evidence, which has not been provided despite the case being listed multiple times. Stephen Faulkner BL, representing Duffy, noted the murder dates back to 2006 and the book is still not ready. Simon Matthews BL for the State said the book of evidence will be served on October 12. Duffy, who was extradited from Scotland, is charged with the murder of Donaldson and possession of a shotgun and ammunition. Donaldson, a former Sinn Fein official, was shot dead in 2006 after publicly admitting to being an MI5 informer. The Real IRA claimed responsibility for the murder. Duffy's lawyers are seeking bail but face opposition from gardaĆ­ due to the lack of evidence served. The case highlights the challenges of prosecuting a murder that occurred over two decades ago, with the delay in serving evidence raising concerns about the fairness of the trial.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Lawyers 'concerned' over wait for evidence 20 years on from Denis Donaldson murder. Charges or matters: the murder of Mr Donaldson and possession of a shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life at Cloghercor, Doochary, Co Donegal, between April 3 and April 4, 2006; involvement in an alleged spy ring. Procedural stage: charge_or_pretrial

When:

Case subjects

Antoin Duffy

Defendant

Charges: the murder of Mr Donaldson and possession of a shotgun and ammunition with intent to endanger life at Cloghercor, Doochary, Co Donegal, between April 3 and April 4, 2006; involvement in an alleged spy ring (Alleged Or Contested)

Places mentioned

Incident
Residence
Secondary Mention

Topics

Stage Charge Or Pretrial Violent Crime

Related court reports

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