A senior garda told the Morris Tribunal today that officers had “rigorously” pursued a reluctant witness who had allegedly seen a suspect near the scene of cattle dealer Richie Barron’s death.

Frank McBrearty, junior, one of two men gardaí saw as chief suspects for murder following the mystery death of a Co Donegal cattle leader nearly seven years ago, today detailed his movements on the night of the fatality for the Morris Garda corruption allegations tribunal.