Pitstop Ploughshares trial - Day Five

national | anti-war / imperialism | news report Friday March 11, 2005 14:29 by Fintan Lane

Legal arguments will run all day

I'm afraid this will be rather a short report as the trial thus far today has involved legal argument in the absense of the jury. Under these circumstances, it not possible to give details of the submissions put forward by the defence. Sub judice, and so on.

It is possible, however, to note that the legal arguments revolve around the "lawful excuse" defence and the scope allowed (or not) for the effective argument of this key element in the defence case. At this stage, it is clear that all of today will be taken up with legal arguments and no witnesses will be heard. Indeed, the jury has been sent home for the day and is not due back until Monday morning.

Despite the inevitable tedium arising from today's legal argument, the mood among the defendants and their supporters remains decidedly upbeat. As usual, a large crowd gathered at the Spire at 9am, a solidarity vigil was held, and in single file we proceeded to the Four Courts. Those present were in good spirits, many bouyed by the wonderful public meeting in TCD last night.

One thing is clear from both the solidarity in the streets and the hard fight being waged in court - this is a case that will not be conceded easily.

The case resumes at 2pm and all solidarity is hugely appreciated by the Pitstop Ploughshares. If you can't make it to the Four Courts this afternoon, then please ensure that you are at the Spire at 9am on Monday morning!

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