FIVE MEN arrested in Cork have appeared at the Special Criminal Court in Dublin and have been remanded in custody after they were charged with being members of the INLA.
Gareth Dunne (22), Clonard Road, Crumlin, Dublin, Gerard Kelleher (27), Cathedral View Walk, Kevin Street, Dublin, Neil Myles (53), of no fixed abode, Edward McGarrigle (42), Melmont Gardens, Strabane, Co Tyrone, and John McCrossan (46), Ballycoleman Estate, Strabane, Co Tyrone, were charged yesterday with membership of the INLA on February 22nd, contrary to the Offences against the State Act.
Det Garda Robert Lackey told the court that he arrested Mr Dunne at Kyrl Street, Cork, on Sunday night.
He said that when cautioned, Mr Dunne replied: "I'm not guilty." Mr Dunne was represented by solicitor Peter Mullan.
Det Sgt John Cahill told the court that he arrested Mr Kelleher on Sunday morning at Anglesea Street, Cork, and that he made no reply when cautioned. Mr Kelleher was represented by Ronan Munro
Det Sgt Marilyn Brosnan told the court that she arrested Mr Myles on Sunday night in Mayfield, Cork, and that when cautioned, he replied, "I am not a member of the INLA."
She agreed with Gerry Charleton defending, when he asked her if Mr Myles "denied at all times membership of the INLA" during Garda interviews.
Det Garda Ian Kenny told the court that he arrested Mr McGarrigle on Sunday morning at Baker's Walk, Cork.
He said that when cautioned, Mr McGarrigle replied: "I believe this is an unjust, immoral charge based on Draconian law. I am innocent of any charge."
He also told Mr Charleton that Mr McGarrigle "denied INLA membership" during Garda interviews.
Det Sgt Tim Murphy told the court that he arrested Mr McCrossan on Sunday night in Mayfield, Cork, and that he made no reply when cautioned.
He agreed with Mr Charleton that Mr McCrossan "denied INLA membership" during Garda interviews.
Mr Justice Paul Butler, presiding at the three-judge court, remanded the five men in custody until Friday morning, when bail applications are expected to be heard.