Retired senior officer to testify

Smithwick tribunal: A retired Garda chief superintendent is to give evidence today at a judicial inquiry into the murder of two RUC officers in 1989.

The evidence of Richard Cottrell will be heard in private in accordance with normal procedures at the Smithwick tribunal.

Judge Peter Smithwick yesterday granted a retired Garda sergeant, Leo Colton, who was stationed in Dundalk between 1972 and 1991, legal representation before the tribunal.

Mr Colton sought representation yesterday after his name featured in Mr Cottrell's statement to the inquiry.

The tribunal is examining the fatal shootings of RUC Chief Supt Harry Breen and Supt Robert Buchanan by the IRA on March 20th, 1989, at Jonesborough, Co Armagh.

They were returning from an informal meeting with senior Garda officers in Dundalk, Co Louth.

Judge Smithwick said the tribunal was aware that Mr Colton had provided information to the then Garda assistant commissioner immediately after the murders, and the tribunal would be hearing evidence in relation to this.

He granted Mr Colton legal representation, saying this was in accordance with fair procedures at the inquiry.

Eamonn Coffey, barrister for Mr Colton, said his client had been provided with the statement of Mr Cottrell.

Public hearings are expected to begin next spring.