Man wanted for 1979 Armagh murder appears in Dublin court

Image source, Getty Images

Image caption, Mr Donegan appeared at Dublin High Court on Monday

A 66-year-old man wanted in Northern Ireland for the murder of a man in County Armagh 45 years ago has appeared before the High Court in Dublin on an extradition warrant.

James Donegan of Bruce Manor, Arva in County Cavan is wanted in Northern Ireland for the murder of 64-year-old Joseph James Porter in June 1979.

Mr Porter's body was found close to the entrance of his farm at Creggan Road, Mountnorris, on 24 June 1979.

The part-time Ulster Defence Regiment soldier died from gunshot wounds to the head and body.

Mr Donegan is also wanted for possession of a firearm and ammunition with intent to endanger life as well as belonging to a proscribed organisation, namely the Irish Republican Army.

The court heard that he had agreed to meet gardai (Irish police) at Dublin Airport as he returned home from a holiday and told arresting officers: "I'm an innocent man".

Mr Justice McGrath remanded Mr Donegan on continuing bail until 4 July.