Gerry Hutch’s barrister says it is “illogical and inconceivable” to say that dropping Jonathan Dowdall’s murder charge wasn’t a “quid pro quo” for him to make a witness statement.

Dowdall was due to stand trial for David Byrne’s murder but the charge against him was dropped after his plea to a lesser charge was accepted.

Mr Hutch is the now the only one on trial for the murder and Dowdall is willing to take the stand to give evidence on behalf of the prosecution.

The judges have been hearing about Dowdall’s dealings with the investigation team in the lead up to making a witness statement in September.

A letter from his solicitor indicated his intention to give evidence.

If that happens, Detective Superintendent Joseph McLoughlin was told the murder charge would have to be dropped, not only because he couldn’t be a witness and an accused, but on the basis that he is not guilty and insists he was not involved.

The solicitor told him they were not looking for a quid pro quo but Mr Hutch’s barrister suggested that was precisely what they were looking for.

He said it was “irrational, illogical and inconceivable” to think otherwise.

Detective Superintendent McLoughlin disagreed and said the decisions were made separately.

Mr Hutch denies murdering David Byrne.

Main image: The Special Criminal Court. Picture by: Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie