State denies claims of Du Plantier corruption

STATE solicitor Malachy Boohig yesterday strenuously denied accusations that an investigation was underway into claims of corruption and misbehaviour by gardaí involved in the Sophie Toscan du Plantier murder inquiry.

The accusations were made by solicitor Frank Buttimer at a sitting of Bandon District Court, in Co Cork.

He was making an application to have gardaí return a number of personal items seized from Ian Bailey, a self-confessed suspect in the 1996 murder in West Cork.

Mr Boohig denied further claims that an investigation instigated by Garda Commissioner, Noel Conroy, was also looking at allegations of concocted statements.

“I’m not aware of any allegations of corruption. It’s completely unfounded as are the use of the words ‘misbehaviour’ and ‘concocted statements’.

“The investigation is not about corruption or misbehaviour. It’s an open investigation into the manner in which gardaí investigated the appalling murder of Ms du Plantier,” Mr Boohig said.

Some items seized over nine years ago by gardaí were returned to Mr Bailey, but approximately 150 are still in their possession — including clothing, footwear, photographs, diaries and other written material.

The property was seized on foot of warrants.

An application was made by Mr Bailey seven years ago for their return, but it was refused.

Mr Buttimer said it was now nearly 10 years since they were seized and that the key witness, Marie Farrell, had since withdrawn statements she earlier given to investigating gardaí.

“Mr Bailey has at all times protested his innocence. Mr Bailey’s position is that he has been victimised and vilified and had to tolerate a deep slur for the last 10 years,” Mr Buttimer said. “There isn’t the remotest possibility of Mr Bailey being prosecuted.”

He also argued that the DPP had the file on numerous occasions and had twice declined to seek a prosecution.

“There never will be a prosecution against Mr Bailey.

“The whole charade and facade has now completely collapsed,” Mr Buttimer said, adding that Ms du Plantier’s family had also withdrawn civil proceedings.

Mr Boohig requested more time to allow the DPP and the Attorney General to consult on the case.

Judge James McNulty said he would adjourn the case until November 3.

However, he added that in his opinion, after almost 10 years, it was “coming close to decision time”, especially given the availability of photocopiers, photographers and forensic examiners.