Omagh bombing accused is charged

A court artist's drawing of Sean Gerard Hoey

A County Armagh man has been formally charged with the murders of 29 people in the 1998 Omagh bombing.

Sean Gerard Hoey, a 35-year-old electrician, from Molly Road in Jonesborough, appeared at Craigavon Magistrates Court in County Armagh.

Mr Hoey stood throughout the 10-minute hearing during which he was charged with possessing explosives and causing an explosion.

He is the first person to be charged with murder in relation to the bomb.

The defendant's solicitor said his client's rights were being violated and said there was no new evidence against him.

He said the evidence offered by the prosecution was based on witness statements which already existed.

Michael and Patsy Gallagher, who lost their son, arrive at the court

Mr Hoey was also charged with 32 other explosives and terrorism offences.

These include a charge of conspiracy to murder security force members.

As well as the fatalities, more than 300 people were injured in the bombing in August 1998. It was the worst single atrocity in Northern Ireland.

The defence lawyer was granted a request to have the trial referred to Belfast Crown Court, where Mr Hoey is expected to appear next Tuesday via video link from Maghaberry Prison.