State solicitor ‘pressured’ to persuade DPP that charge was appropriate

The State Solicitor for West Cork, Malachy Boohig, said he was asked to attend a meeting in Bandon Garda Station in March 1998 where it was made clear gardaí were unhappy the DPP had opted not to charge Ian Bailey over the death of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.

The meeting was hosted by Dermot Dwyer, now a retired chief superintendent, and the main speaker was Detective Chief Supt Sean Camon, since deceased, while Det Sgt Liam Hogan, also deceased, was also there. He was not sure if Martin McQuinn, who may have been an Assistant Commissioner, was there. It was suggested certain pressure should be brought to bear, to persuade the DPP, a charge would be appropriate, he said.

On leaving the room, he was spoken to by Det Supt Camon and he believed Dermot Dwyer was also present, he said.