Partner of Ashling Murphy settles defamation case against BBC

The partner of murdered school teacher Ashling Murphy has settled his High Court claim for defamation against the BBC, receiving substantial damages.

Ryan Casey, 27, sued the corporation following the broadcast of a discussion on BBC News NI's political programme The View on 30 November 2023.

The discussion focused on the victim impact statement Mr Casey made following the sentencing of Jozef Puska for the murder of Ms Murphy.

Ashling Murphy, 23, was murdered in January 2022 as she jogged on the banks of the Grand Canal near Tullamore, County Offaly.

In a statement read to the court in Dublin on Thursday, the BBC said it stood by the journalism involved in the episode in question, which it said "debated serious issues of public interest", and acknowledged Mr Casey's personal tragedy.

"The BBC is however happy to clarify that it does not consider Ryan Casey to be a criminal or a racist, or someone guilty of or attempting to incite hatred, or someone seeking to pose as a hero of the far right through his victim impact statement," the statement continued.

"This statement clarifies any unintentional inferences that could have been drawn from the broadcast and has enabled the BBC and Ryan Casey to resolve this matter amicably."

It is understood Mr Casey has received substantial damages as well as a contribution towards his costs amounting to a six figure sum.

In a statement, Mr Casey said the settlement marked the "end of a long and difficult chapter of frustration and censorship".

"I took this legal action against the BBC not solely out of anger, but out of a need for accountability and dignity for Ashling, for myself, our families, and for all victims who deserve to have their voices heard without such harsh criticism or judgment<" he said.

"I welcome the resolution of these legal proceedings and the acknowledgements made by the BBC in their statement in open court today.

"I hope this serves as a reminder to all media organisations of the high level of responsibility that comes with running such public platforms.

"This was never just about me, it was about truth, fairness, and decency."

Mr Casey thanked those who had supported him over the last few years.

"I now move forward, finally free to use my voice again, to honour Ashling and to advocate for the changes we desperately require in this country, for the increased safety measures we so clearly need, and for a society that listens to its people, free of gaslighting, blacklisting or censorship," he said.

"We all have a lot more in common than what separates us.

"Let's honour Ashling by building a better and safer Ireland, we all know we can do so much better."