Decision expected today in Bailey extradition case

A judge will rule today whether former journalist Ian Bailey can be extradited to France for questioning over the murder of a film-maker.

Mr Bailey is wanted by authorities in Paris in connection with the killing of Sophie Toscan du Plantier, who was violently beaten to death in Toormore 14 years ago.

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

Bailey, 53, was arrested twice in connection with her murder but never charged. He denies any involvement in her death.

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

Investigating magistrate Patrick Gachon was appointed by officials in Paris to conduct an inquiry into Ms Toscan du Plantier's violent death after the Irish Director of Public Prosecutions announced that nobody would be charged.

A European Arrest Warrant was issued for Bailey.

During a two-day hearing in December, barrister Martin Giblin, senior counsel for Bailey, argued that there has been no new evidence against his client to support an extradition.

He also maintained that the application was an insult to the Irish State and the DPP, who has repeatedly directed no prosecution be taken.

Mr Justice Michael Peart will deliver his judgment at the High Court in Dublin this morning.

Manchester-born Bailey, a recent law graduate, lives in Schull with his partner, Jules Thomas, who has stood by him over the years.

He worked as a journalist in Gloucester and Cheltenham in England before moving to Ireland in 1991.