The family of a woman killed in Spain said they are another step closer to justice after her husband was extradited for her manslaughter.
Convicted wife-killer Michael Dermot McArdle is wanted to serve a two year jail term for the death of Kelly-Anne Corcoran in February 2000.
The mother-of-two plunged to her death off a hotel balcony in Malaga, Costa del Sol, after a violent argument and struggle with her husband.
McArdle (42) from Brookfield, Heynestown in Dundalk, Co Louth, was found guilty in a Spanish court in October 2008 of gross negligent homicide.
Several members of Ms Corcoran’s family were in the High Court in Dublin when barristers for the accused confirmed he was no longer contesting his extradition, which is due to take place immediately.
Outside, Peter Moran, the victim’s brother-in-law, said: “The family are very pleased that this is another step in achieving justice for Kelly-Anne.
“We would like to thank all her friends and relatives who have helped us through this difficult time and we would like to thank all the authorities for all their hard work.”
McArdle previously appealed an extradition order for his trial in Spain, but lost his challenge in the Supreme Court in 2005.
He was allowed to return to Ireland after his conviction pending an appeal in Spain - which he also lost - but failed to return last September to hand himself in to serve his sentence.
A European arrest warrant was issued and he was arrested by gardaí in January.
McArdle’s parents were in court as he took the stand and confirmed he understood the consequences of being surrendered.
The Spanish courts previously ordered McArdle to pay all costs relating to his legal battle, amounting to €500,000, and awarded €100,000 to Ms Corcoran’s parents and €60,000 to each of his sons.
PA