Ex-IRA man challenges refusal to grant him firearm licence

Former IRA man Angelo Fusco (59) is appealing a decision by a Garda superintendent in Kerry to refuse him a licence for a firearm, and was accompanied to court yesterday by Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris, who is expected to be a character witness on his behalf.

The matter, which had been adjourned, came before Tralee District Court yesterday, and was set for hearing in what was expected to be a full contest.

At least four character witnesses were to be called, solicitor for Mr Fusco, Padraig O’Connell, told Judge James O’Connor.

Mr Ferris accompanied Mr Fusco, along with Tralee businessman Eddie Barrett and family members of Mr Fusco.

Mr Fusco, of Knocknacaska, Kilflynn, Tralee, is appealing a decision by Supt James O’Connor given on April 8th to refuse to grant a firearms certificate in respect of a shotgun.

After being told by State solicitor Adrian Judge that the matter would take some hours, Judge O'Connor said that it would require a special day, and he adjourned the matter to a Civil Court day in October.