‘Not feasible’ for public to access court remotely

At present no more than ten people, including the judge and security and court staff, can be present in the courtroom due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Court business is currently being facilitated remotely, however District Judge Ted Magill said on Wednesday that it is ‘not feasible’ for members of the public to access it from their homes. The judge said he has ‘no intention of forbidding’ loved ones attending the hearing and that is ‘going to be a severe handicap to proper proceedings’.

Paul McIntyre (52) of Kinnego Park, is charged with the murder of Lyra McKee, possessing a firearm with intent and belonging to a prescribed organisation.He is further charged, along with 39-year-old Christopher Gillen, of Balbane Pass, with throwing and possessing petrol bombs, hijacking, arson and rioting on April 18, last year.

Derry Magistrate’s Court heard that the mixed committal hearing, which is listed for June 15, will last five days and five prosecution witnesses will give evidence.

A prosecutor said that four of these witnesses are police officers and will give evidence via videolink. However, he said a fifth witness is likely to be required to attend court in person.

The court heard that this witness is an expert employed by the prosecution to examine CCTV evidence, but his evidence and expertise is to be challenged by the defence.

Both defendants are due to attend the hearing remotely.

Mr Devlin, acting for McIntyre, said that his client has requested video equipment to be installed in Roe House, where he is currently remanded in Maghaberry Prison.

The barrister added that if the request is not granted there may be a legal challenge mounted.

The case will be reviewed again next week.