The Supreme Court has made an order for the extradition of an Irishman wanted in the UK on charges of allegedly indecently assaulting his then nine-year-old granddaughter.
The five-judge court yesterday granted an appeal by the Minister for Justice against a High Court decision refusing the man's extradition on the grounds that he was at "real risk" of dying if placed under severe stress. It made an order committing him to prison until he is surrendered to the UK authorities.
The court said the man would not be extradited without his consent for 15 days to allow his lawyers to consider the judgment.
The man was arrested in Ireland in April 2005 on foot of a European arrest warrant relating to three offences of indecent assault on his now 15-year-old granddaughter between June 30th, 2000, and September 1st, 2001.
Having analysed the medical evidence, Mr Justice Finnegan said he was not satisfied it justified the High Court's conclusion that the man was at a real risk of dying if placed under severe stress.
He was satisfied the man would receive appropriate healthcare in the UK whether on bail or in custody. While noting medical opinion that stress might precipitate acute coronary disease, he was satisfied something "much more definite" by way of a threat to right to life would be required before the court would prevent a trial.
