Man jailed for Ardee garda killing makes bid for early release
A man serving 40 years in prison for the capital murder of a garda sergeant has told the High Court he greatly regrets the horrific events that took place that day.
Noel Callan of Cullaville, Castleblayney, Co Monaghan was originally sentenced to death for the 1985 killing of Sergeant Patrick Morrissey who was shot dead by his (Callan's) accomplice in a raid on the Ardee Labour Exchange in June of that year.
He is now making a legal bid for early release.
Noel Callan and his accomplice Michael McHugh were convicted of capital murder by the Special Criminal Court in 1985.
Both had their death sentences commuted to 40 years by then President Patrick Hillery on an "understanding" the full prison term would be served. Callan said believes the deal is in breach of his rights because it excludes the possibility of remission for good behaviour.
Having now spent more than 25 years behind bars, Callan was described in court as a model prisoner.
Eleven years after he was refused early release under the Good Friday Agreement, Callan told the court today that he accepts a great wrong was done to Sgt Morrissey and his family and that he greatly regrets his involvement in the events of that day.
