Judge awaits details of 'gang members’ release' claim

The Chief Justice John Murray has sought details from the Department of Justice of the 23 gang members who Michael Mc Dowell has claimed were released on bail by the High Court.

Supreme Court officials have contacted department officials for information on associates of murdered criminal Martin Hyland, referred to in the Dáil by the Minister for Justice.

However, it is understood Justice Murray's office has not yet received the information.

It is thought that Minister Mc Dowell's assertion that 23 out of 24 members of Hyland's gang have been given bail is based on Garda intelligence.