Alleged British agent and senior IRA figure Freddie Scappaticci has been granted legal representation at the Smithwick tribunal of inquiry into the murder of two RUC officers in 1989.
Mr Scappaticci, known as "Stakeknife", was one of seven individuals and bodies, including the Attorney General and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, who today sought representation from Mr Judge Peter Smithwick ahead of the reopening of public hearings next month.
The tribunal is investigating claims of collusion by members of the Garda, or other State employees, in the murders of senior officers RUC Chief Supt Harry Breen and Supt Robert Buchanan in March 1989, at Jonesborough, south Armagh.
They were returning from an informal meeting with senior Garda officers in Dundalk, Co Louth.
Mr Scappaticci had been refused legal representation when the tribunal last sat in 2006 on the grounds that he was not at that time relevant to the tribunal's inquiries.
However Judge Smithwick today said the situation had since altered and Mr Scappaticci had "become a person at risk of having his good name and personal property jeopardised" by evidence that may be given during the tribunal.
Judge Smithwick granted the application of Michael Flanagan Solicitors, for legal representation for Mr Scappaticci, but limited to the days when he may be mentioned in evidence.
Legal representatives of Margaret Keeley, the ex-wife of former British agent Peter Keeley, who uses the name of "Kevin Fulton", sought permission to have a "watching brief" at the tribunal.
Judge Smithwick said Ms Keeley's legal team could attend any public session, but they will not be entitled to tribunal documentation. Her former husband has already been given full legal representation at an earlier hearing.
An application was also granted for legal representation for former Garda sergeant Finbarr Hickey, who was convicted in 2001 for signing false passport application forms for members of the Provisional IRA.
Former garda Leo Colton sought legal representation at the tribunal. He application is under consideration by Judge Smithwick.
The PSNI, the Attorney General and Eilish Morley were also granted legal representation.
The tribunal is expected to hear an opening statement from Judge Smithwick on June 7th and then begin hearing evidence two days later.
