Crime & Law

Man accused of breaking Lunney’s nose contests charges of assaulting PSNI officers

Bernard McGovern facing extradition proceedings to Republic

Alan Erwin
Thu Nov 14 2019 - 17:07

An amateur boxer accused of breaking Co Fermanagh businessman Kevin Lunney’s nose is to contest charges of assaulting two police officers during his arrest, a court heard today.

Bernard McGovern’s lawyer confirmed he intends to deny the allegations connected to his detention in September.

Up to five witnesses will now give evidence at a trial listed for hearing in Belfast early next year.

McGovern (22), of Springtown Road in Kinawley, Co Fermanagh, is facing extradition proceedings after being detained on a European Arrest Warrant.

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He is wanted in the Republic of Ireland over claims he was involved in an attack on two Quinn Industrial Holdings (QIH) executives at a service station in Co Cavan on February 1st.

Previous courts were told Mr Lunney suffered a broken nose, while his colleague Dara O’Reilly had a cup of hot water poured onto his face. McGovern is not accused of any role in subsequent, separate events on September 17th when Mr Lunney was abducted and tortured.

Attempts to have McGovern extradited are on hold pending the outcome of the case against him in Belfast. He faces charges of assaulting two PSNI officers – one male and one female – and resisting police. The alleged offences were committed on September 19th when he was detained on the arrest warrant.

McGovern was not present for Thursday’s review hearing at Belfast Magistrates’ Court. A prosecution lawyer said body-worn footage of the alleged incident has been obtained and will be served on the defence “as soon as possible”.

Pressed by District Judge Steven Keown, defence solicitor Michael Brentnall confirmed McGovern will be contesting the charges. Adjourning proceedings, Mr Keown listed the case for trial on February 12th.

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