Wayne O'Donoghue released from prison

The 23-year-old was expected to be smuggled out of the prison, but instead he read a prepared statement to waiting journalists and photographers.

Supported by his father, Ray, and solicitor, Frank Buttimer, O'Donoghue said: “I wish to express my profound apologies and deep regret to Mark and Majella Holohan and to their family for causing to them the loss of their beloved Robert.”

“I fully accept responsibility, not only for that loss but also for the additional grief and stress which I have caused to them owing to my actions following Robert’s death. I realise and accept that nothing which I may do or say will ever ease their suffering.

“I feel and carry the burden of guilt for my actions each day.

“I also profoundly regret the hurt and distress which I have caused to the wider community. To all whom I have caused such grief and distress I can only repeat my sorrow and ask for forgiveness.

“To my own family relations and friends, I also wish to repeat my expression of sorrow for the pain and suffering which I have caused you.

“I’ve always stated that I would, as a consequence, accept the penalty imposed by the courts for my wrongdoing. I have served the penalty which has been imposed on me by the courts to the best of my ability.

“I intend this to be my only statement in relation to this matter and I hope for your understanding in that regard.”

O’Donoghue also thanked staff at the prison before being driven away to an undisclosed location.

O'Donoghue killed his 11-year-old neighbour in Midleton, Co Cork, in January 2005 before dumping his body 12 miles away.

He says he accidentally killed Robert by grabbing him around the neck after he threw stones at his car.

O’Donoghue, an engineering student, was acquitted of Robert’s murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter.