Flynn's firearms trial to begin

The trial of former Government advisor Phil Flynn on firearms charges is finally expected to go ahead today.

The 65-year-old is facing charges of possession of a 0.38-calibre pen gun and two mini teargas canisters without a licence.

Two previously scheduled hearings of the case at the Richmond District Court in Dublin were adjourned.

The first adjournment was due to a family bereavement and the second because his lawyers requested more time to examine forensic evidence.

The charges relate to a raid on Mr Flynn’s Dublin offices last February as part of an investigation into the former trade unionist’s links to an alleged IRA money laundering operation.

Officers from the Criminal Assets Bureau allegedly seized an unlicensed pen gun and miniature ammunition in the search.

Mr Flynn, from Blackhorse Avenue, Dublin 7, has consistently denied any involvement in such activity.

He stood down from his position as head of the Government’s decentralisation implementation committee in the aftermath of the IRA money laundering raids.

He also resigned as chairman of Bank of Scotland (Ireland) and as a director of VHI.

The case is due to begin at 10.30pm in the Richmond District Court.