Man extradited from UK charged with murder

A man who was extradited from the UK has appeared in court charged with the murder of Paul Ryan eight years ago.

Darren Byrne (aged 37) of no fixed abode has been remanded in custody for a week with 24-hour protection.

Dubliner Paul Ryan was shot in the head. His body was found dumped in the gateway of a field in Coolderry, Birr, Co Offaly, on April 12, 2003.

Following an investigation by a cold-case team set up 36-year-old Darren Byrne was extradited from the UK.

He has been charged with the murder and with possessing a sawn-off shotgun with intent to endanger life.

The court heard he replied to the charges: "I’m not guilty of this crime" and "I did not do that crime".

He also said: "I cannot fully answer for them things because my life is in danger now … I need to speak to my legal team now because I’m in fear for my life."

Judge Miriam Malone has remanded him in custody for a week.