Husband Sentenced to Life for Murder of Catherine Doyle

The husband of Catherine Doyle has been sentenced to life for her murder in 2019.

54-year-old Alan Ward was sentenced to life for killing Doyle at their Clondalkin home in March 2019.

Ward had previously been convicted of assaulting his wife in 2002, following gardaí having been called to the house on five separate occasions.

Reading a letter to the court, Ward expressed shame over his actions and said he would change it if he could.

The presiding judge, Justice Tony Hunt, pointed to Doyle's son, whose loss he described as "clear and profound." Hunt said it was the latest in a line of cases involving violence springing from domestic abuse.

Speaking outside the court following sentencing, Doyle's family urged any victims of domestic violence to seek help.

Speaking on behalf of An Garda Síochána, Detective Sergeant Sean Cosgrove reiterated that message. He said help is available for anybody who needs to come forward and report domestic abuse.

A statement read outside the court on behalf of Doyle's family said it was a "great feeling" knowing their mother was so well-loved.

The family have now asked for privacy to allow them to heal.