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The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Sean McGovern appears before Special Criminal Court charged with murder amid huge security operation after plane landing
KINAHAN gang member Sean McGovern appeared before the Special Criminal Court tonight on murder and organised crime charges after he was extradited on a military plane from the UAE. The aircraft touched down at Casement Aerodrome in Baldonnel at 6.28pm and the senior member of Daniel Kinahan's gang was brought to the Criminal Courts of Justice under heavy armed escort. Advertisement 4 Sean McGovern has been taken to the Special Criminal Court Credit: Crispin Rodwell - The Sun Dublin 4 McGovern had been extradited from the UAE and landed in Dublin this evening Credit: GARY ASHE - THE SUN DUBLIN 4 He was arrested shortly after landing and rushed to court Credit: GARY ASHE - THE SUN DUBLIN He was driven underground in a unmarked Garda motorcade at 7.12pm after armed officers closed off Infirmary Road to traffic. He then appeared before presiding judge Ms Justice Karen O'Connor, along with Ms Justice Elma Sheahan and Ms Justice Grainne Malone, at 7.40pm following a consultation with senior Gardai and his legal team. About 30 members of the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Garda Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau were present in court following the high profile extradition on a military plane from the UAE. McGovern, who was sporting a shaved head and facial hair growth and was wearing a grey t-shirt, grey tracksuit, black sliders and white socks, said 'yes' when he stood up to confirm his name and made no reply when the five charges were put to him. Advertisement Read more in News The 39-year-old was charged with the murder of Noel 'Duck Egg' Kirwan at St Ronan's Drive on December 22, 2016 who was shot outside his home after he returned home from Christmas shopping. He also faces a charge that between October 20 and December 22, 2016 he directed the activities of a criminal organisation to carry out the murder of Mr Kirwan and another offence of facilitating a criminal organisation to murder of Mr Kirwan. McGovern is also charged that between October 17, 2015 and April 6, 2017 he did direct the activities of a criminal organisation to monitor the activities of James 'Mago' Gately and another offence of facilitating a criminal organisation in the conspiracy to murder Gately between the same dates. Detective Sergeant Donal O'Daly told the court he arrested McGovern at Casement Aerodrome at 6.38pm and handed him a copy of the European Arrest Warrant, which was issued by the Special Criminal Court on March 10, 2022. Advertisement Most read in Irish News The officer said he also met with him in the precincts of the court, explained the charges to him and handed him a copy of the charge sheet. At the outset Mr Olan O'Callanan BL, for McGovern, told the court: 'The defence reserves it's position on the lawfulness of the arrest and the jurisdiction of this court.' CASE PUT BACK TO NEXT WEEK He asked for the case to be put in for June 5 and requested that his client appear for the brief hearing by video-link from Portlaoise Prison. Ms Justice O'Connor remanded McGovern in custody and adjourned the matter until next Thursday morning. Advertisement The hearing lasted 15 minutes. McGovern is the first person to be extradited from the United Arab Emirates to Ireland. EXTRADITION TO IRELAND He has been in custody for over seven months but was taken from his cell in the UAE without being told his attempts to stop his extradition had failed and gardai travelled to the Middle East country to bring him home. Members of the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau flew to Dubai this week as part of the major op to transport him back to Ireland. Advertisement McGovern appeared at the Special Criminal Court after he was flown from the UAE to Ireland on an Air Corps Airbus C295 plane. The aircraft left Al Maktoum International in Dubai at 8pm Irish time on Wednesday and stopped in Larnaca in Cyprus and Marseille in France to refuel. ARMED SECURITY OP Once landed at the Casement Aerodrome, McGovern was brought to the Special Court to be charged with the five different offences. He was brought to the court by armed Gardai, including the Emergency Response Unit. Advertisement The Gardai's Armed Support Unit were also mobilised to appear at the Courts of Criminal Justice in Parkgate Street. The Crumlin man was extradited to Ireland on Wednesday after losing his appeal against the extradition in the last week. ARREST IN DUBAI He was arrested in Dubai last October after an Interpol Red Notice was issued for his arrest. He's the first person from Ireland to be extradited from the UAE and also the first one sent home to face charges on the Red Notice. Advertisement McGovern was extradited after the Department of Justice, the Gardai and the Department of Foreign Affairs struck a specific deal on McGovern. The investigations into McGovern were being run by the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau, the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation and detectives from Lucan and Ronanstown. INTERNATIONAL DEAL Gardai also received support from their international colleagues. The deal was classified as a 'reciprocal and bi-lateral' agreement dealing specifically with his case. Advertisement The deal also means Ireland could extradite someone to the UAE if a request was made. And the pact was also made before the Irish Government signed a formal extradition treaty with the UAE on May 18. UAE VISIT The agreement also came about after the late Assistant Commissioner John O'Driscoll extended the Garda Liaison Network since 2020. Before McGovern's extradition, senior members of the Gardai, including Commissioner Drew Harris, regularly travelled to the region. Advertisement Law enforcement officers from the UAE also visited Ireland last year. It's understood the paperwork to facilitate McGovern's return to Ireland was completed earlier this month. REGENCY INJURY McGovern, who's originally from Crumlin, has been living in Dubai since 2017. Before going to Dubai, he was shot and injured in the Regency Hotel attack in which his best pal David Byrne was shot dead. Advertisement And a European Arrest Warrant was issued for his arrest in March, 2022 and announced at a press conference the following month, attended by the DEA, the US Treasury Dept and the National Crime Agency, in Dublin's City Hall. His dad Des passed away when he was living in Dubai. LAST IMAGE IN DUBLIN The Irish Sun obtained the last image of him in Dublin when he was photographed off Dublin's Grafton Street with Liam Byrne and Liam Roe, who has since passed away. The pic was used by the Gardai in their European Arrest Warrant. Advertisement Earlier today, Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan said: 'In recent years, the UAE and Ireland have worked together to advance criminal investigations into serious and organised crime. 'That strong cooperation was further strengthened by the decision to deploy a Garda Liaison Officer to Abu Dhabi last year and the negotiation of bilateral treaties on extradition and mutual legal assistance, both of which entered into force on Sunday 18 May. 'STRONG COOPERATION' 'These developments result from tireless work by An Garda Síochána and officials in my own Department with their UAE counterparts, supported by their colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs and other agencies. 'I would particularly like to acknowledge and thank my counterpart, the Emirati Minister of Justice, His Excellency Abdullah Bin Sultan Bin Awad Al Nuaimi and his senior officials in the Ministry of Justice, along with the Dubai Police, for their ongoing engagement and commitment to strengthening judicial and police-to-police cooperation." Advertisement Acting Deputy Garda Commissioner Shawna Coxon said: 'As this is a live on-going extradition operation I am constrained in what I can say, however, I would like to acknowledge this is another significant development in on our continued work with international law enforcement partners. 'This work has involved extensive meetings by Senior Garda Officers here and abroad with international law enforcement partners, as well as highly detailed and intricate investigative work with those partners. 'SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT' 'This has been supported by our network of Garda Liaison Officers stationed in key locations abroad. 'This work is not possible without the assistance of the Department of Justice, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Director of Public Prosecutions. Advertisement 'I want to particularly thank the Ministry of Justice at a judicial level in the United Arab Emirates." 4 Acting Deputy Garda Commissioner Shawna Coxon said 'this is another significant development in on our continued work with international law enforcement partners' Credit: Liam McBurney/PA Wire
The Sun
23-04-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Emma mattress deals 2025 UK: Up to 45% off this April
IF you're in the market for a new mattress then now could be the perfect time to buy. Emma has just launched its biggest sale of the year for April 2025, with savings of up to 45% off across its award-winning mattresses and sleep accessories. 8 Get FREE products + an extra 5% off with code: THESUN The sale includes massive discounts on all their most popular models, including the Original, Premium and Hybrid options - perfect if you've been putting off upgrading your tired old bed. But it gets even better. When you purchase any mattress, you'll also receive free sleep accessories depending on the bundle. One incredible deal includes two free pillowcases worth £25 to keep your new purchase in pristine condition. For our readers, there's an exclusive extra discount to sweeten the deal further. Simply enter code THESUN at checkout to receive an additional 5% off your entire order. Emma Sleep mattress deals for April Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress, £604.45 (was £1,099) 8 Emma Luxe Cooling Mattress Small Double, £604.45 SHOP HERE What's the deal: Emma is discontinuing this model so when current stocks are gone, they're gone. You'll save yourself a massive £494.55 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £604.45 from the original £1,099. Then add in our discount code THESUN at checkout to get an extra 5% off your order. Why it's a good buy: The single and double sizes have already sold out, but you can still get your hands on the small double, king size and super king versions. Perfect for warmer sleepers, the Luxe Cooling uses special temperature-regulating technology to stop night sweats. With over 100 reviews of this mattress to read online at Emma, customers particularly love how it helps them sleep through warm nights without constantly throwing off the covers. Check out our guide to the best cooling mattresses for more tried-and-tested options. Emma Hybrid Airgrid Mattress, £806.40 (was £1,008) 8 Emma Hybrid Airgrid Mattress Double, £806.40 (was £1,008) + extra 5% off with code: THESUN What's the deal: You'll save yourself £201.60 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £806.40 from the original £1,008. Then add in our discount code THESUN at checkout to get an extra 5% off your order. Why it's a good buy: The seven-layer design combines technology for hot sleepers with exceptional support. Its standout AirGrid layer disperses heat while the 7-zone spring layer targets pressure points exactly where you need it. We love the practical UltraDry cover that zips off easily for washing - keeping your mattress fresh with minimal effort. If you're after hotel-quality sleep with cooling technology, this premium hybrid is worth every penny. Emma Hybrid Thermosync Mattress, £580.80 (was £726) + free Emma Matress Protector 8 SHOP HERE What's the deal: You'll save yourself £145.20 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £580.80 from the original £726. Plus you'll receive a free Emma Mattress Protector worth up to £129. Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving on top of these already impressive discounts. Why it's a good buy: If you're a hot sleeper who tosses and turns, this could be your perfect match. The Thermosync combines graphite-infused layers to regulate temperature with seven-zone pocket springs that target support exactly where your body needs it. Reviewers particularly praise how it helps with back pain while preventing overheating - a rare combination in the mattress world. The removable, washable cover is practical for allergy sufferers too, making this a smart investment for better sleep all year round. Emma Hybrid Premium Mattress, £408 (was $480) 8 Emma Hybrid Premium Mattress Small Double, £408 (was $480) + extra 5% off with code: THESUN SHOP HERE What's the deal: You'll save yourself £72 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £408 from the original £480. Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving. Why it's a good buy: The award-winning Hybrid Premium combines both pocket springs and memory foam across seven supportive zones - ideal if you suffer from aches and pains. Reviewers particularly love how it keeps your spine perfectly aligned while relieving pressure on joints, hips and shoulders. The clever design also allows air to flow through the mattress, keeping warmer sleepers cool throughout the night. With Emma's standard 200-night trial, you can test it thoroughly before committing - though most customers are sold after just a few nights of improved sleep. Emma sleep accessories and bedding deals Emma Premium Cloud Pillow Bundle, £128 (was £160) + free pillowcases worth £24.99 8 Emma Premium Cloud Pillow Bundle, £128 (was £160) + free pillowcases worth £24.99 + extra 5% off with code: THESUN What's the deal: You'll save yourself £32 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £128 from the original £160. Plus, you'll receive free pillowcases worth £24.99. Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving on your order. Why it's a good buy: Say goodbye to neck pain with these clever adjustable pillows that let you customize the height and firmness to match exactly how you sleep. Perfect for couples with different preferences, the Premium Cloud features special Outlast thermal technology that regulates temperature throughout the night - keeping your head cool when it matters most. The breathable, machine-washable design makes these pillows practical as well as comfortable, with reviewers particularly praising how they've helped reduce morning stiffness and improve sleep quality. Head over to our guide to the best pillows for more options we've put to the test. Emma Premium Mattress Topper, £243.95 (was £287) + mattress protector, £63 (was £70) 8 Emma Premium Mattress Topper Small Double, £243.95 (was £287) + mattress protector, £63 (was £70) + extra 5% off with code: THESUN What's the deal: You'll save yourself £145.20 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £580.80 from the original £726. Plus you'll receive a free Emma Mattress Protector worth up to £129. Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving on top of these already impressive discounts. Why it's a good buy: If you're a hot sleeper who tosses and turns, this could be your perfect match. The Thermosync combines seven zones of pocket springs with cooling technology to support different parts of your body. Perfect for those with neck or back pain, the memory foam layers work with the springs to keep your spine aligned while regulating temperature all night long. The removable, washable cover is a practical bonus that keeps your investment fresh for years to come. For more, take a look at our guide to the best mattress protectors you can buy Emma 4-Seasons Duvet, £94.35 (was £111) + free Emma 100% Cotton Percale Duvet Cover SHOP HERE What's the deal: You'll save yourself £16.65 with this deal, bringing the price down to just £94.35 from the original £111. Plus, you'll receive a free 100% Cotton Percale Duvet Cover - an absolute bargain. Apply our exclusive code THESUN at checkout for an extra 5% saving on top of these already impressive discounts. Why it's a good buy: This clever 4-Seasons design gives you three of the best duvets in one - use the lightweight layer in summer, the medium layer in spring/autumn, or clip them together for maximum warmth in winter. Perfect for hot sleepers (and those who share a bed with one), the breathable design regulates temperature brilliantly throughout the year. Completely machine washable too, which is always a bonus for keeping bedding fresh. If you're looking at getting a new mattress, this duvet is included in the Emma Hybrid Thermosync Mattress Deal, which is a great way to get bang for your buck and kit out your bedroom in one click. Are Emma mattresses any good? For us at Sun Shopping, the answer to this question is a resounding yes. Whether you opt for the economical Emma Original or the more luxurious Emma Premium mattress, we think you're getting value for money and giving yourself the best chance of a good night's sleep. It is important to do your research to figure out exactly what specifications you need from a mattress. In the Emma premium mattress review, our tester noted that "Having a high-quality mattress has truly levelled up my sleep game". This will help you buy one that's right for your requirements and needs, and will hopefully ensure longevity and overall satisfaction. Which Emma mattress is best? The Emma NextGen Premium Mattress is a great all-rounder. It has a combination of memory foam, springs and cooling technology, so ticks the boxes for anyone wanting the most bang for their buck. That's not to say we don't love the Emma Original Mattress though, and the single version is ideal for children — check out our Emma Kids' Single Mattress Review to find out more. Make sure you add the discount code THESUN for an extra 5% off any Emma deal. Are Emma mattresses any good for side sleepers? Emma doesn't exclusively reference mattress technology specifically for side sleepers, however, the NextGen Cooling mattress does offer full body pressure relief and support. The mattress has seven different pocket spring zones, which provide specific support to different areas of the body. This particular Emma mattress has received plenty of positive reviews online. Fans have shared their thoughts on the quality of the design and improved sleep, with one reviewer stating it has created an "optimum balance between support and comfort". Our own The Sun shopping tester, "who sleeps chaotically on all sides" also gave the mattress top marks in our best cooling mattress roundup. What is the life expectancy of an Emma mattress? Emma offers shoppers a 10-year guarantee on all their mattresses, a policy that starts as soon as you receive your mattress. If you encounter any problems with your mattress, Emma's customer service will assist you in resolving the issue including completely swapping out your faulty mattress for a new one. A mattress is certainly an investment piece, so Emma customers can also make the most of the brand's 200-day sleep trial. It means you get enough time to really road-test your mattress in real life and decide if it works for you. What is the firmness of an Emma mattress? Emma's mattresses are rated using a scale to explain how firm their mattresses are. The firmness of Emma's mattresses is the product of premium extra-tall springs aiding support and correct spinal alignment. A majority of Emma mattresses are scored with a medium-firm rating, reviews suggest that the Simba Hybrid is firmer than Emma mattresses. However, it is important to do your own research to find the mattress suitable for you. If you do purchase an Emma mattress, you can trial it for up to 200 days to make sure it is right for you. best mattress you can buy right now.
Scottish Sun
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Scottish Sun
Horse racing tips: ‘He has great form on quirky tracks' – Templegate's NAP lined up for a big one at Epsom
TEMPLEGATE tackles a busy Tuesday of racing confident of smashing in some winners. Back a horse by clicking their odds. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE The only place to get Templegate's tips first - and at the best prices - is by joining Sun Racing's brilliant Members Enclosure (UK only). Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing's best winning team and get... Four free racing tickets, four times a year - worth £300 Templegate's daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else Exclusive access to Templegate's daily NAP Tomorrow's copy of The Favourite at 9pm today Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month Become a member today for just £1* *For the first month then £3 per month thereafter. SIGN UP NOW 18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. UK only. For more information contact help@ STRESSFREE (2.45 Epsom, nap) He has been winning over hurdles this winter and trainer David O'Meara was happy with his Flat comeback at Doncaster last month. He ran a cracker to finish fourth in a big field and may have won with a clearer run. This five-year-old comes back from the same handicap mark of 93 and, while he's done plenty of winning in soft ground, he also handles the decent conditions he should face on the Downs today. Danny Tudhope's mount has good form on quirky tracks like Musselburgh and Chester so should enjoy himself around Epsom's rollercoaster. DEVIL'S ADVOCATE (2.10 Epsom, nb) John Gosden has a solid record in this race with no fewer than seven wins since the turn of the century. He can add to that impressive record with this son of Too Darn Hot who showed loads of pace when scooting in at Chelmsford last time out in October. That built nicely on his debut third at Newmarket when a mile was clearly on the short side. He is bred to enjoy this better ground and can take another big step forward. Hold your Derby bets though as the last winner of this to follow up in the Classic was just before the Second World War! EMERALD ARMY (8.00 Thirsk, treble) There was lots to like about his comeback win over course and distance earlier this month. He came from a long way back to get up right on the line with a bit left in the tank. A 3lb rise in the weights won't put the brakes on in this modest contest. Templegate's tips FREE BETS - GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who: Establishes time and monetary limits before playing Only gambles with money they can afford to lose Never chases their losses Doesn't gamble if they're upset, angry or depressed Gamcare – Gamble Aware – Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
The Sun
21-04-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
Horse racing tips: ‘He has great form on quirky tracks' – Templegate's NAP lined up for a big one at Epsom
TEMPLEGATE tackles a busy Tuesday of racing confident of smashing in some winners. Back a horse by clicking their odds. THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE The only place to get Templegate's tips first - and at the best prices - is by joining Sun Racing's brilliant Members Enclosure (UK only). Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing's best winning team and get... Four free racing tickets, four times a year - worth £300 Templegate's daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else Exclusive access to Templegate's daily NAP Tomorrow's copy of The Favourite at 9pm today Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month Become a member today for just £1* *For the first month then £3 per month thereafter. SIGN UP NOW 18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. UK only. For more information contact help@ STRESSFREE (2.45 Epsom, nap) He has been winning over hurdles this winter and trainer David O'Meara was happy with his Flat comeback at Doncaster last month. He ran a cracker to finish fourth in a big field and may have won with a clearer run. This five-year-old comes back from the same handicap mark of 93 and, while he's done plenty of winning in soft ground, he also handles the decent conditions he should face on the Downs today. Danny Tudhope's mount has good form on quirky tracks like Musselburgh and Chester so should enjoy himself around Epsom's rollercoaster. DEVIL'S ADVOCATE (2.10 Epsom, nb) John Gosden has a solid record in this race with no fewer than seven wins since the turn of the century. He can add to that impressive record with this son of Too Darn Hot who showed loads of pace when scooting in at Chelmsford last time out in October. That built nicely on his debut third at Newmarket when a mile was clearly on the short side. He is bred to enjoy this better ground and can take another big step forward. Hold your Derby bets though as the last winner of this to follow up in the Classic was just before the Second World War! EMERALD ARMY (8.00 Thirsk, treble) There was lots to like about his comeback win over course and distance earlier this month. He came from a long way back to get up right on the line with a bit left in the tank. A 3lb rise in the weights won't put the brakes on in this modest contest. Templegate's tips Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who:
The Irish Sun
21-04-2025
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Horse racing tips: ‘He has great form on quirky tracks' – Templegate's NAP lined up for a big one at Epsom
TEMPLEGATE tackles a busy Tuesday of racing confident of smashing in some winners. Back a horse by clicking their odds. THE SUN RACING MEMBERS ENCLOSURE The only place to get Templegate's tips first - and at the best prices - is by joining Sun Racing's brilliant Members Enclosure (UK only). Sign up now for just £1* to be part of racing's best winning team and get... Four free racing tickets, four times a year - worth £300 Templegate's daily tips at the BEST prices before anyone else Exclusive access to Templegate's daily NAP Tomorrow's copy of The Favourite at 9pm today Exclusive insights from top trainer Ben Pauling VIP competitions from Racing Breaks each month Become a member today for just £1* *For the first month then £3 per month thereafter. SIGN UP NOW 18+ Ts and Cs apply. First month membership £1, then £3 per month unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. UK only. For more information contact help@ STRESSFREE (2.45 Epsom, nap) He has been winning over hurdles this winter and trainer David O'Meara was happy with his Flat comeback at Doncaster last month. He ran a cracker to finish fourth in a big field and may have won with a clearer run. This five-year-old comes back from the same handicap mark of 93 and, while he's done plenty of winning in soft ground, he also handles the decent conditions he should face on the Downs today. Danny Tudhope's mount has good form on quirky tracks like Musselburgh and Chester so should enjoy himself around Epsom's rollercoaster. DEVIL'S ADVOCATE (2.10 Epsom, nb) John Gosden has a solid record in this race with no fewer than seven wins since the turn of the century. He can add to that impressive record with this son of Too Darn Hot who showed loads of pace when scooting in at Chelmsford last time out in October. That built nicely on his debut third at Newmarket when a mile was clearly on the short side. He is bred to enjoy this better ground and can take another big step forward. Hold your Derby bets though as the last winner of this to follow up in the Classic was just before the Second World War! EMERALD ARMY (8.00 Thirsk, treble) There was lots to like about his comeback win over course and distance earlier this month. He came from a long way back to get up right on the line with a bit left in the tank. A 3lb rise in the weights won't put the brakes on in this modest contest. Templegate's tips FREE BETS - GET THE BEST SIGN UP DEALS AND RACING OFFERS Commercial content notice: Taking one of the offers featured in this article may result in a payment to The Sun. You should be aware brands pay fees to appear in the highest placements on the page. 18+. T&Cs apply. . Remember to gamble responsibly A responsible gambler is someone who: Most read in Horse Racing Establishes time and monetary limits before playing Only gambles with money they can afford to lose Never chases their losses Doesn't gamble if they're upset, angry or depressed Gamcare – Gamble Aware – Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.
