After the assault, the three men drove to a wilderness area where they disposed of the wallet and gloves containing DNA evidence that later linked them to the crime.

One of the three, John Irving (31), had 57 convictions, including for burglary, theft, arson, criminal damage and endangerment.

After John Irving (31), of Shanwar, Foxford, Co Mayo, pleaded guilty this morning to Mr Niland's unlawful killing, Ms Justice Eileen Creedon discharged the jury which had been hearing evidence in the trial.

John Irving is accused of entering Tom Niland's home as a trespasser and causing him serious harm. He is further alleged to have intentionally or recklessly caused serious harm to Mr Niland and to have falsely imprisoned him.

John Irving faces four charges in total. It is alleged that he unlawfully killed Tom Niland on September 30th, 2023, having assaulted him on January 18th, 2022, at Mr Niland's home at Doonflynn, Skreen, Co Sligo.