A man who was formerly in the witness protection programme is suing the State claiming it failed to deliver on promises for a new identity, a new car and a new house.

David Mooney claims he has received death threats and can not use his PPS number to find work or claim social welfare.

He says he tried to set up a nightclub in Dublin city centre in 2002 but was warned by Gardai he was under threat from certain parties.

2 men were arrested and he claims he subsequently testified for the State when their cases came to trial on the basis he was to enter the witness protection programme.

He says he was promised a new identity, a new house, a new car, a new social insurance number and a green card for the USA but has received none of these things.

David Mooney claims his life is at risk. He was told he cannot use his old PPS number because of the risks of being traced.

He is now suing the Garda Commissioner and the State for damages claiming breach of contract, breach of duty and negligence. The case will return to court in June.