The legislation was central to the prosecution and subsequent imprisonment of former IRA figure Thomas 'Slab' Murphy. Photo: Niall Carson/PA

Sinn Fein is expected to maintain its deeply controversial stance of abolishing the Special Criminal court when TDs vote on the matter, possibly as early as next week.

The party came under fire over its opposition to the country's anti-terror and gangland law during the General Election campaign.

The legislation was central to the prosecution and subsequent imprisonment of former IRA figure Thomas 'Slab' Murphy.

It's now emerged that Sinn Féin TDs are preparing to vote against the retention of the legislation that underpins the now two Special Criminal Courts in operation - despite the escalation of gangland crime across Dublin.

Political sources say the vote must take place by the end of the month but could be held as early as next week.

A Sinn Féin source confirmed the party will oppose the retention of the court, which are seen as being central to the jailing of several gangland figures in recent years. The issue will be seized upon by Government figures who have accused Sinn Féin of being soft on the issue of crime and justice.

Irish Independent