A Co Sligo man had admitted to gardai that he had bought the shotgun used in the killing of Mr Terence Madden, who was shot dead outside his home last January, the Special Criminal Court was told yesterday.
Det Sgt Brian Mostyn told the court that Mr Patrick McGrath had brought gardai to the shotgun and had signed a statement in which he outlined the circumstances in which he acquired the gun.
The detective said that Mr Madden was the victim of a knee-capping attack and was shot with a shotgun at close range and died almost immediately.
The witness opposed bail for Mr McGrath (56), a father of 12, of Cuilprughlish, Gurteen, Co Sligo.
Mr McGrath has been charged with possession of a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life and with intentionally causing serious harm to Mr Madden at Monasteraden, Co Sligo, on January 28th last.
Det Sgt Mostyn said that he believed Mr McGrath would interfere with witnesses, including his family, friends and neighbours if he were given bail. He also believed that Mr McGrath would abscond.
Mr Justice Morris, presiding, said the court would fix bail at Mr McGrath's own bond of £10,000 and two independent sureties of £20,000. Mr McGrath would be required to stay at an address approved by the court, and not to visit Co Sligo or to contact any witness in the case.
The court was told that independent sureties were not available for Mr McGrath and he was remanded in custody until April 22nd next.