Tribunal to decide on costs tomorrow

Witnesses who failed to co-operate in the inquiry into corruption in the Donegal Garda division may face large legal bills tomorrow.

The Morris Tribunal is due to make its first rulings on costs, following the publication of its interim report in the summer.

Judge Frederick Morris received applications for costs from a variety of parties, including Superintendent Noel Lennon and Detective Garda Noel McMahon.

The tribunal’s interim report found both of these men had orchestrated the planting of ammunition and hoax explosives in Co Donegal. They had also lied to the tribunal.

Supt Lennon, who failed last year to get a High Court order compelling the State to pay his legal costs, is representing himself at the tribunal. He applied for costs of €37,600 for photocopying, typing and research.

The Morris Tribunal’s terms of reference state that individuals who fail to co-operate "fully and expeditiously" should bear all the extra costs incurred by the tribunal.