O’Donoghue settles suit

A LIBEL action taken by Wayne O’Donoghue, who was convicted of the manslaughter of 11-year-old Robert Holohan in 2005, has been settled in the High Court.

Mr O’Donoghue had brought proceedings against the Sunday World and the Evening Herald newspapers, claiming he was libelled by the content of articles published in 2006 in relation to the killing of the schoolboy in January 2005, in Midleton, Co Cork.

As part of the settlement, a statement was read out on behalf of both newspapers, acknowledging there was no evidence that semen found on Robert Holohan’s body was that of Mr O’Donoghue, as was reported.

Speaking outside the court, Mr O’Donoghue’s solicitor, Frank Buttimer, said his client was pleased there has been an acknowledgement in court that the material which was published was inaccurate.

“The publications have been gracious enough to acknowledge that by their acknowledgement in court here today. It has been a very, very difficult matter for all concerned, not least for the family of Robert Holohan, certainly for Wayne O’Donoghue and his family.

“Wayne and his family are pleased that there has been an acknowledgment on today’s date and as far as he’s concerned that concludes those matters.”

A joint statement from Michael Denieffe, managing editor Independent Newspapers, and Colm McGinty, editor of the Sunday World, thanked Robert’s parents, Majella and Mark, for attending the hearing.

“We take this opportunity to acknowledge their courage and dignity,” the statement said.

Picture: Wayne O’Donoghue, who served three years in jail for killing schoolboy Robert Holohan. Picture: Collins Courts