Closing speeches due in Bailey case

The jury in Ian Bailey’s civil action for damages over the conduct of the Garda inquiry into the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier are due back in court tomorrow after legal issues in the case are addressed.

The case opened last November and evidence concluded earlier this month after 59 days. Evidence was heard from 90 witnesses, of whom about 70 were called by the State. The case was then adjourned for a week due to jurors’ commitments.

It resumed on its 60th day yesterday when the jury was told by Mr Justice John Hedigan it had not proved possible to resolve a range of legal issues between the sides.

In those circumstances, the judge said the court would have to address the legal matters and the jury would not be required while decisions were made on the various legal issues.

Closing speeches would certainly start tomorrow morning, he said.

Mr Bailey’s side will make their closing arguments first. That will be followed by closing arguments from the State after which Mr Justice Hedigan will charge the jury.

It is expected the speeches and charge will run for a number of days with the effect the jury may not be sent out to consider their verdict until late this week or early next week.

The action, against the Garda Commissioner and State, arises from the probe into the murder of Ms Toscan du Plantier, whose body was found near her holiday home at Toormore, Schull, on December 23, 1996.

The defendants deny all of Mr Bailey’s claims, including wrongful arrest, false imprisonment, and conspiracy to manufacture evidence. His claim for damages includes exemplary damages.

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