Published Thursday, 20 December 2012
Former billionaire Sean Quinn was jailed for contempt of court. (© Pacemaker)
The 66-year-old businessman was jailed for contempt of court over the hiding of millions in assets from the former Anglo Irish Bank.
The decision to release him was made on Thursday afternoon, Quinn's lawyer confirmed.
"Mr Quinn will be able to spend Christmas with his family at home," Kevin Winters said.
"Which is only right and fitting, because it is no more or less than any other prisoner is entitled to at this time of year."
He added: "It is a great sense of relief to his family that his application was approved."
Quinn will now be freed on Christmas Eve.