Five men have appeared in court charged in connection with an alleged plot to murder Patsy Hutch - the brother of Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch.

All of them are also accused of taking part in a conspiracy to murder another unknown person between February 1st and March 10th last year.

As well as the conspiracy to murder charges, Michael Burns of no fixed abode and Patrick Curtis of Bellmans Walk, Seville Place, Dublin 1 are also accused of directing the activities of a criminal organisation.

Their three co-accused: Mohammad Smew of Shanowen Road, Santry, Ciaran O'Driscoll of Avondale House, Cumberland Street, Dublin 1 and Patrick Curtis' younger brother Stephen are also charged with participation in activities to facilitate the murder of Patsy Hutch and an unknown person.

Some of the alleged activities include the purchase and provision of vehicles and phones as well as reconnaissance and other assistance to gang members.

Mr Burns is also accused of possession of a gun and ammunition at an address in west Dublin on March 10th last year.

Among the six charges faced by Mr O'Driscoll is that he acted or agreed to act as a lookout.

The five men were remanded in custody today until February 3rd.

Reporting by Frank Greaney