Jill Meagher killer jailed for minimum of 35 years

Jill Meaghar’s uncle says there has been great solidarity shown between the people of Ireland and the people of Australia since his niece’s murder last year.
Michael McKeown from Drogheda was speaking after the man convicted of the rape and murder of the Irish journalist was sentenced to at least 35 years in prison at the Victorian Supreme Court in Melbourne this morning.
It was revealed earlier this month at a pre-sentence hearing that Adrian Earnest-Bayley – who had pleaded guilty – had previous convictions for more than 20 rape offences and was on parole when he murdered Jill.
Jill’s husband Tom and her family were in court for the sentencing hearing.
Michael McKeown says Jill’s family has received alot of support but that they now they need time to grieve.
“The world is such a small place nowadays with the internet, with Skype and everything” he said.
“And so many…Irish people living in Australia – it’s a small world we live in and Australia’s a bit like home from home”.
“A great deal of solidarity between the people here in Ireland and the people in Australia” he added.
Jill’s father George McKeon spoke outside court in Melbourne.
“Because of Victoria Police and Public Prosecutions Victoria, justice has now been done” he said.
“Police and prosecutors: we thank you” he added.