Downey appeals extradition over 1972 murders

John Downey, aged 67, has appealed his extradition to Northern Ireland to face charges relating to the August 1972 bombing in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, in which two British Army soldiers were killed. The High Court in Dublin ordered his extradition in March following his arrest in Creeslough, County Donegal, on a European Arrest Warrant. Northern Irish authorities seek to prosecute him for the murders of Lance Corporal Alfred Johnston and Private James Eames, who died when an explosive device detonated near a vehicle they were inspecting on the Irvinestown Road. Mr Downey's legal representatives argued before the Court of Appeal that a letter of assurance issued by the UK government constituted a decision not to prosecute him and created a legitimate expectation he would not face proceedings. The Attorney General's counsel contended the letter merely stated no active investigations existed at that time and did not amount to immunity from prosecution. The Court of Appeal reserved judgement on the appeal.