Bailey to fight extradition

Former journalist Ian Bailey will today fight his extradition to France where he is wanted for questioning over the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier

Mr Bailey is wanted by authorities over the killing of the film-maker, beaten to death in west Cork 14 years ago.

The 39-year-old was found dead outside her holiday home at Toormore, near Schull, two days before Christmas 1996.

Bailey, who lives in west Cork, was arrested three times over her murder but never charged. He has denied any involvement in her death.

More than two years ago investigating magistrate Patrick Gachon was appointed by authorities in Paris to conduct his own inquiry under French law into Ms Toscan du Plantier’s death, after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) announced that nobody would be charged following the garda investigation.

A European arrest warrant was issued by police in France, where he is wanted for the alleged wilful homicide and serious assault and battery.

Under French law, authorities can investigate the suspicious death of a citizen abroad but they cannot compel witnesses to go to Paris for questioning.

Bailey, 53, who has an address at The Prarie, Toormore, Schull in Co Cork, was awarded a law degree at University College Cork earlier this month.

The High Court in Dublin previously heard points of objection to be raised by Mr Bailey include an unlawful attempt to subvert the DPP’s decision not to prosecute him in connection with the investigation into Ms Toscan du Plantier’s death and unlawful interference with Mr Bailey’s constitutional right to liberty.