A man charged in connection with a bomb attack on a police station in Lurgan has been refused compassionate bail by both the Magistrates Court and the High Court.

Barry Toman, 47, of Drumnamoe Avenue, Lurgan, applied to be released from Maghaberry Prison to attend his uncle's funeral at St Peter's Church in Lurgan on Friday 28 August.

At Lisburn Magistrates Court on Thursday 27 August, defence barrister Andrew Moriarty KC submitted the compassionate bail application. Prosecution barrister Sarah Minford objected, telling the court that the defendant might commit further offences and could interfere with the investigation. She raised concerns that he could influence a teenage co-accused. The court heard that Toman has nine previous convictions.

Deputy District Judge Brian Archer refused the application, stating he was concerned the defendant could abscond or reoffend, and that the two sureties proposed would have no control over him.

Toman then made a further compassionate bail application to the High Court in Belfast. After hearing submissions from both sides, Mr Justice Rooney also refused bail. He cited concerns about the risk of flight, the risk of reoffending, and the defendant's criminal record.

Mr Justice Rooney asked for confirmation that the defendant would be able to watch the funeral by video link from within Maghaberry Prison. He indicated that if this was not available he would reconsider the application.

Toman is on remand in connection with a device that failed to detonate outside a police station. A previous court hearing was told that his DNA was allegedly found on the bomb.