Serial killers unlikely to walk free

FEARS that the State's only known serial killers could soon be set free lessened yesterday as it is understood that British police still want to question Englishmen John Shaw and Geoffrey Evans about a number of unsolved sex offences in the Manchester area.

Justice Minister Michael McDowell also said there would have to be "very grave reasons" for him to interfere with the original sentence.

News that Shaw and Evans have applied for early release from life sentences they are serving in Ireland have been greeted with shock and disbelief.