A man who is a paraplegic is "terrified" his needs may not be met in a British prison if he is extradited to the UK on a murder charge, the High Court was told yesterday.
The extradition of Jason Brady (26), Cushlawn Park, Tallaght, is being sought to meet charges that he murdered Charles William Tandy and stole a laptop computer after allegedly trespassing at a technology building in Redding Lane, Tyseley, Birmingham, on December 10th, 2001.
It is alleged Mr Tandy tried to prevent Mr Brady leaving the area and that Mr Brady drove over him. Mr Brady became a paraplegic as a result of a motor accident in 2006.
Giollaiosa Ó Lideadha representing Mr Brady, opposed the extradition yesterday on grounds of delay in seeking it.
Counsel also said that his client was facing the rest of his life confined to a wheelchair and was totally committed to rehabilitation. He needed special assistance to have a shower, and if he did not receive rehabilitation, his mobility would greatly decrease and his life span would be shortened.
Counsel said Mr Brady was terrified his needs would not be met in the UK if he was extradited. Mr Brady wanted an assurance that he would get the type of treatment facilities necessary to stop him deteriorating, but the UK authorities had declined to provide that.
Counsel for the State argued Mr Brady's medical condition did not constitute the exceptional circumstances necessary to justify refusing the extradition. Mr Brady would be treated humanely given that the UK was a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights, counsel said.
Mr Justice Peart reserved his decision and said he hoped to give judgment on June 20th next.