Former Sinn Fein Worker Testifies Against Daithi McKay in NAMA Trial

A former Sinn Fein worker charged with conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office said today he felt he had been 'used' by one-time party colleague Daithi McKay.

The Trial: Thomas Gerard O'Hara is one of three men on trial in Belfast Crown Court in connection with a Stormont Committee meeting in September 2015. McKay, a former MLA and Committee Chairman, was investigating NAMA's handling of property loans.

Manipulation Allegations: Evidence presented suggests manipulation of witness evidence to cause political embarrassment. The trial revealed exchanges between McKay, the witness Jamie Bryson, and O'Hara, alleging an attempt to influence testimony on Twitter.

Testimony Highlights: O'Hara, a dyslexic self-employed plasterer, shared details of his interactions with McKay and the request to send messages to Bryson on Twitter. He claimed McKay authored the messages and directed him in the communication. The defense questioned O'Hara about his involvement and knowledge of the Twitter exchanges.

Key Denials: Despite the messages sent, O'Hara denies any agreement or direct contact with Bryson, maintaining McKay was the sole author of the messages sent to Bryson. The trial continues with further testimonies on the alleged mismanagement in the NAMA investigation.