News

Farmer can't remember 'Slab' Murphy giving him money

Thomas "Slab" Murphy (centre), leaves the Special Criminal Court in Dublin where is on trial for tax evasion.
Thomas "Slab" Murphy (centre), leaves the Special Criminal Court in Dublin where is on trial for tax evasion. Thomas "Slab" Murphy (centre), leaves the Special Criminal Court in Dublin where is on trial for tax evasion.

A Co Meath farmer who rented land to veteran republican Thomas 'Slab' Murphy has told a court that he cannot remember ever being paid rent.

Murphy, of Ballybinaby, Hackballscross, Co Louth is currently on trial at Dublin's Special Criminal Court charged with tax evasion.

The prosecution have alleged that although Murphy conducted significant dealings in relation to land and cattle, he failed to make any returns to Revenue.

The 66-year-old has pleaded not guilty to nine charges alleging that he failed to furnish a return of his income between1996/97 to 2004.

The prosecution was sparked by an investigation by the Criminal Assets Bureau.

It has been claimed that despite applying for and receiving government grants of more than €100,000 (£73,600) he did not make any returns to revenue commissioners during that period.

Giving evidence yesterday, land owner Brian Garvey told Paul Burns SC, prosecuting, that he rented land to Mr Murphy and his brothers.

"I met the three of them and they were all involved", Mr Garvey said.

He started renting to the brothers in 1997 or 1998, he told the court.

He also said that the rent was paid in cash and third-party cheques.

"I can't remember Tom ever handing me money," he told the court.

The court previously heard evidenc that Murphy had access to "considerable" cash sums despite not supplying any tax returns.

The trial, which is taking place before three judges in a non-jury court and is expected to last three weeks, will resume on Tuesday.