Omagh bomb accused to bring in DNA expert

An electrician accused of making the Omagh bomb is bringing in a DNA expert in a bid to prove police bias, a court heard today.

Sean Gerard Hoey, 34, denies plotting a string of terrorist attacks leading up to the Real IRA massacre in August 1998.

He faces a total of 18 charges involving explosives and membership of the dissident republican organisation behind the Omagh outrage when 29 people and unborn twins were murdered in the worst single act of Northern Ireland’s Troubles.

But at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court today a defence solicitor demanded to see notes made by the prosecution forensic scientist based on police briefings.

Peter Corrigan, for Hoey, alleged the report was not impartial, violating his client’s human rights.

He said: “We have instructed a defence DNA expert to comment in particular on whether or not the prosecution biologist’s report is partisan and biased.

“This may provide the defence expert with evidence that police exerted undue influence on the scientist.”

Hoey’s alleged offences include possession of a timer power unit between March 1997 and August 16, 1998 – the day after terrorists devastated the County Tyrone market town.

He is also accused of conspiring to cause explosions at a police station in Armagh, in nearby Blackwatertown and in Banbridge, County Down in the run-up to the Omagh attack.

Hoey, of Molly Road, Jonesborough, County Armagh, has already had a High Court bail application rejected.

During today’s hearing prosecution representatives argued that a magistrates’ court was not the right setting for the defence to put their case.

But as the accused listened from prison via a video link, magistrate Alan White urged investigating officers to provide an update on the state of the case.

Remanding Hoey in custody until September 16, he said: “I want a full explanation made to me.

“I will include this issue of access by the defendant to forensic records. Why, if they are not being allowed access, what are the reasons for that.

“I’m not saying I’m going to order it, I’m going to look at the issues. I have a duty to monitor the progress of the case.”