Sentencing of young Cork mother's killer is stalled over solicitors' strike

Sentencing of the self-confessed killer of a young mother of two in a flat in Mallow in January last year did not go ahead today 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, Bridewell Lane, Mallow, on January 3 2025.

Sentencing for the manslaughter was scheduled the Central Criminal Court sitting in Cork.

Senior counsel Ray Boland, who has acted for the defendant at earlier hearings, said today that he did not have instructions in the case for today. That refers to the solicitors being on strike in the dispute over free legal aid.

Last month, prosecution senior counsel Donal O’Sullivan said the probation report had been prepared and the case was ready for sentencing from the prosecution point of view. 

On that occasion in June, 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, had been charged initially with the murder of Ms Canty. 

However, prosecution senior counsel 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.