Solicitors’ strike delays sentencing of Mallow man who admits killing Paula Canty
Paula Canty: Killed at teh Belfry, Mallow, on January 3, 2025.
Sentencing of the self-confessed killer of a mother of two in a flat in Mallow, Co Cork, in January 2025 did not go ahead on Friday because of the absence of legal representation due to the solicitors’ strike.
Joseph Butler of the Belfry, Bridewell Lane, Mallow, pleaded guilty to the unlawful killing of 31-year-old Paula Canty at the Belfry, on January 3, 2025.
Sentencing for the manslaughter was scheduled for Friday at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork.
Ray Boland SC, who has acted for the defendant at earlier hearings, said he did not have instructions in the case, a situation referring to the solicitors being on strike in a dispute over free legal aid.
Last month, Donal O’Sullivan SC, prosecuting, said the probation report had been prepared and the case was ready for sentencing from the prosecution point of view.
On that occasion, Mr Boland commented that the probation report was very positive and that the defence wished to have time for the preparation of some testimonials on the defendant.
Ms Justice Siobhán Lankford adjourned the case until October 5 at the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork.
Mr Butler, who is originally from Midleton, Co Cork, had been charged initially with the murder of Ms Canty. However, Mr O’Sullivan said the plea of guilty to the manslaughter charge was acceptable to the State.
Mr Boland said previously, “He is a 43-year-old man with a history of substance abuse. He is very remorseful about events of that night… He has written a letter of apology to the family of Ms Canty.”
The family of the late Ms Canty will have an opportunity to present their victim impact statement at the eventual sentencing.
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