An eight year libel action has ended in the High Court after Ian Bailey unexpectedly withdrew all his claims.
Ian Bailey was suing five Irish and British newspaper groups, alleging they had branded him a murderer. One newspaper editor described the decision as one of complete capitulation.
After eight years, Mr Bailey left the High Court in Cork without a cent in damages and with the central allegation made by five newspapers still standing. The newspapers had alleged that Mr Bailey was a reasonable suspect in the Sophie Toscan du Plantier murder. However, Mr Bailey has always disputed this. Following negotiations between the two legal teams, Mr Bailey withdrew all his claims.
He pledged their coverage had branded him the murderer.
The newspapers claim that they never said he was the murderer. The are contributing €70,000 towards Mr Bailey's costs and are waiving costs awarded in the failed Circuit Court action. However, they are paying no damages to Mr Bailey. Frank Buttimer solicitor for Ian Bailey described the strike-out of the proceedings as an honourable compromise.
These past 10 years have been extremely difficult for Mr Bailey and indeed for his steadfast partner Jules Thomas because of the false accusations which have been levelled against him.
Solicitor for the newspapers Karyn Woods of McCann Fitzgerald Solicitors say that Mr Bailey capitulated and are calling for reform of the libel laws.
Ian Bailey is still pursuing a case against the State.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 16 February 2007. The reporter is Paschal Sheehy.
