The State’s top judge said there is “nothing inevitable” about a form of government where checks and balances by the courts provides for the limitation of the legislative and executive powers.

Martin John McCauley, with an address at Esmondale, Naas, Co Kildare, appeared before the High Court in Dublin.

A Supreme Court ruling which dismissed his final appeal means it is the end of the legal road in Ireland for the killer who has already spent nine years behind bars

Judge John Martin said there was insufficient evidence Simeon Burke had committed a criminal offence, quashing the conviction

Sean Burke, of Cloonsunna, Castlebar, Co Mayo, made his second appearance at Dublin District Court on Wednesday

Sean Burke, of Cloonsunna, Castlebar, Co Mayo, appeared before Dublin District Court on Wednesday.