McKevitt in fresh bid to win release from prison

Convicted terrorist Michael McKevitt has brought fresh legal proceedings aimed at securing his early release from Portlaoise Prison.

Last month, McKevitt, aged 65, from Beech Park, Blackrock, Co Louth, sought an inquiry under Article 40 of the Constitution. He argued he was entitled to one third remission of his sentence for good behaviour and participating in prison activities. He was jailed for 20 years in 2003 for directing terrorism and membership of the Real IRA

Yesterday, McKevitt withdrew his Article 40 application following a ruling by the Supreme Court in a case where similar legal points had been raised. The court held the application ought to have been taken by way of judicial review.