Lorry death suspect has ‘ modest means’

Trucker in court on migrants tragedy rap

A TRUCKER facing 39 counts of manslaughter after the Essex migrant deaths has “modest” means, Dublin High Court heard yesterday.

Eamon Harrison is alleged to have delivered the trailer in which the bodies of 39 Vietnamese were found last month.

The court heard the 22-year-old, from Mayobridge, Co Down, won’t be seeking bail but is challenging his extradition to the UK.

Lawyer Tony Mcgillicuddy told Mr Justice Binchy he had an affidavit containing Mr Harrison’s draft points of objection and this has been provided to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

He indicated the issues relate to the “contents of the warrant” and “conflicts” the accused is arguing on the face of the warrant.

The barrister said a statement of Mr Harrison’s “modest” means has also been put before the judge.

DECISION

Mr Mcgillicuddy also made an application for an additional senior counsel to represent the accused and the judge granted this.

Elva Duffy, for the State, confirmed the DPP has received Mr Harrison’s draft points of objection.

Yesterday’s hearing follows an earlier court appearance on November 1 after the endorsement of a European Arrest Warrant for Mr Harrison. On that day, Sgt Jim Kirwan told the court there are 41 offences in the European Arrest Warrant for Mr Harrison including 39 manslaughter charges, one of conspiracy to commit human trafficking and one of conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration.

The UK authorities allege the accused delivered the trailer to a Belgian port before heading to Britain. Mr Justice Binchy set November 21 as the next hearing date.