Derry man prepared to reject violence to achieve Irish unity

A DERRY man accused of directing the New IRA is prepared to publicly disavow using violence to achieve Irish unity, the High Court has heard.

Counsel for Gary ‘Musky’ Hayden (49) said he was prepared to make the declaration in order to secure release from custody.

Hayden, of Tyrconnell Street, is among ten people facing prosecution following a surveillance operation targeting the dissident republican grouping, codenamed ‘Operation Arbacia’.

The suspects, which include two women and a Palestinian doctor, were arrested after police and MI5 covertly bugged meetings in Omagh, Co Tyrone between February and July last year.

Prosecutors claim those in attendance discussed membership of the dissident faction and its constitution, military and recruitment strategy, weaponry, interaction with other outlawed organisations, and planned attacks.

A Crown lawyer contended on Tuesday: “We are dealing with the highest echelons of terrorist activity.”

‘Musky’ Hayden faces charges of directing the activities of the republican terror group, belonging to a proscribed organisation, and preparation of terrorist acts.

He mounted a renewed bid to be released after 51-year-old co-accused Paddy McDaid, of Magowan Park in Derry, was granted High Court bail.

McDaid’s successful application depended on his cousin, the former Sinn Fein MLA Raymond McCartney, lodging a £50,000 cash surety.

In court, McDaid also publicly disavowed the use violence for political aims.

Lawyers for ‘Musky’ Hayden argued that he should also now be granted bail in line with McDaid.

Defence barrister Stephen Mooney indicated that his client was prepared to make a similar pronouncement.

“It’s Mr Hayden’s instructions that he does not advocate the use of violence for the purpose of achieving Irish unity,” he said.

“He is prepared to state that in open court.”

However, Hayden was not asked to publicly eschew any such violent methods.

Adjourning the bail application, the judge drew a distinction between the level of surety on offer and the £50,000 lodged to secure McDaid’s release.

Madam Justice Karen Quinlivan QC pointed out that Mr McCartney had been willing to risk “political embarrassment”.

She added: “He has put significant finances on the line, and also put his public personality on the line.”

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