Risk of coronavirus has led a High Court judge to permit a man suspected of murdering two soldiers in Enniskillen almost 50 years ago, to return to his home in Donegal, until the current crisis passes.


Lawyers for John Downey (68) of Cresslough mounted a challenge to allow him to move from his current bail address in Belfast, back to Donegal, given his age and existing health conditions.
The hearing took place by tele-conferencing, before Mr Justice McAlinden, in Belfast.
Downey is accused of murdering Lance Corporal Alfred Johnston and Private John Eames, aged 32 and 33 respectively, in an Enniskillen car bomb attack in August 1972.
After a number of unsuccessful bail applications, a significant surety was offered in December and an unnamed Sinn Fein representative volunteered his home as an address.
The High Court decided Downey could be released, along with stringent terms.
But today (Friday) the defence claimed this is no longer suitable given Downey’s health problems, which include a respiratory condition.
Counsel for the Public Prosecution Service strongly opposed to the move, pointing out Downey’s wife works in a hospital environment and risk could be increased.
Nonetheless the defence contended Downey was anxious to go home until the current health emergency passes.
Judge McAlinden decided under the circumstances bail could be amended, pointing out senior members of Sinn Féin in Northern Ireland would suffer “significant embarrassment and reputational damage” if the arrangements were breached.
When previously released, £225,000 was lodged with the court, and the Judge ordered a family member of Downey’s to lodge a further £5,000, as part of the varied bail conditions.
He is also to engage in in calls with PSNI twice weekly by Skype.
It is not clear when the matter will be re-listed at court.