Result of Chawke robbery appeal to be known today

A man convicted in connection with an infamous armed robbery on a Dublin publican eight years ago will today find out if his appeal has been successful.

Publican Charlie Chawke had to have his right leg amputated after he was shot at close range during the raid on the Goat Grill in Goatstown on October 6, 2003.

Frank Ward of Knockmore Avenue, Tallaght was jailed in 2007 for five offences including causing serious harm to Mr Chawke, robbery of €50,000 and possession of a shotgun with intent to commit robbery.

Mr Ward represented himself at last year's appeal and argued that potential jurors should have been excluded from his trial if they were members of Fianna Fáil.

The 56-year-old said potential jurors should have been asked their political opinions as FF supporters would have a prejudice against him because of Mr Chawke's friendship with Bertie Ahern.

He argued the only reason he pleaded guilty mid-trial was that he had a panic attack because his usual medication had been substituted for other drugs by prison authorities.

The result of the appeal is to be made known today.