A Limerick man caught "red-handed" transporting a major explosives haul for the Continuity IRA was jailed for eight years by the Special Criminal Court yesterday.
The court heard that Christopher Smith was to be paid £100 to bring the vanload of explosives to Tipperary.
Smith (39), an unemployed father of two children, Ballynanty Beg, Limerick, pleaded guilty to the unlawful possession of two anti-armour drogue bombs, 17 improvised hand grenade bodies, 11 improvised projected grenades and components for improvised grenades and other bomb-making equipment at Townspark, Cahir, Co Tipperary, last January 23rd.
Mr Justice O'Donovan said there was no doubt the material found in Smith's van had the capacity to cause severe destruction of life and property. The judge said the sentence must reflect the gravity of the offence and the court would show no mercy to those engaged in such activities.