A CATHOLIC priest apologised to mourners at a graveside after a PSNI helicopter flew overhead during the funeral of a Co Fermanagh republican.
Canon Joseph Mullin was officiating at the funeral of veteran republican Mick McManus in Lisnaskea on Monday.
It is understood the helicopter remained overhead as Canon Mullin said graveside prayers and he apologised to those present for the disruption.
Mr McManus (78), who was a founding member of Republican Sinn Féin, died on July 20 after a long illness.
He stood as an independent republican candidate in the 2007 assembly elections.
His cortege was flanked by a colour party provided by the Enniskillen Independent Republican Committee.
His coffin was also draped with the United Irishmen flag, two GAA tops, and beret and gloves.
Well known in Fermanagh Mr McManus was a founding member and former chairman of St Patrick’s GFC Donagh and was the club’s president.
Members of the club formed a guard of honour as his remains were carried from the church.
However assembly member for the area Sean Lynch last night criticised the scale of the police operation which he said was "over the top".
He said the presence of the helicopter before and during the funeral “was not only disrespectful but also totally uncalled for”.
Mr Lynch said he will be “seeking answers from the PSNI as to why an operation of this nature was necessary”.
The PSNI however has defended the operation saying they were "satisfied that an appropriate and proportionate policing operation was in place".
“We would welcome the opportunity to discuss any community concerns with local representatives," a spokesman said.
