Ian Bailey has lost his action against the State over claims Gardai conspired to frame him for the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.

The French film producer was bludgeoned to death outside her holiday home in West Cork in December 1996.

The jury had two questions to answer –- the first was whether Gardai conspired to implicate Ian Bailey in the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier.

The second was whether there was a garda conspiracy to obtain false statements from Schull shopkeeper Marie Farrell that Ian Bailey had intimidated her.

After about 2 hours deliberations the jury came back with their answers – no on both counts.

Ian Bailey's solicitor Frank Buttimer spoke outside court on his client's behalf. 

He said the result was disappointing and that his client would have to consider his options. 

Mr Justice John Hedigan thanked the jury and said he would send a transcript of Marie Farrell's evidence to the DPP for consideration.

He also spoke of the shadow of the French film producer's tragic and senseless death.

He said it was a source of dismay in Ireland and France that her cruel killer has not been brought to justice.