Gardai investigating the murder of a Co Armagh man almost nine years ago have arrested a suspect aged in his 50s.

Paul Quinn, from Cullyhanna, was 21 when he was beaten to death near Castleblayney, Co Monaghan.

His family blame members of the IRA but Sinn Fein has always denied republican involvement in Mr Quinn's death.

Gardai said they arrested a man on Thursday as they carried out searches on ground close to Castleblayney in connection with the killing.

A Garda spokesman said: "The man in his 50s has been arrested under section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act. He is being questioned at Carrickmacross Garda station."

Mr Quinn was found beaten at farm buildings in Tullycoora, near Castleblayney, in October 2007.

He died in hospital several weeks later.

His family said he had been involved in a dispute with individual IRA members.

Stephen and Breege Quinn, the dead man's parents, from Cullyhanna, were notified of the Garda operation.

"We are delighted and it just goes to show that the guards are not giving up and are still at it," Mr Quinn said.

"It's a long time but it gives us a lift that they are still working and going on ahead with the investigation.

"It gives you a bit of hope. We are very grateful."