The trial in Limerick of five men for the murder of Kieran Keane will be transferred to Dublin, The Irish Times has learned. It is expected to start in the Central Criminal Court in the Four Courts on Tuesday week.
It is understood the decision was made by High Court president Mr Justice Finnegan, following difficulties in empanelling a jury in Limerick on Wednesday. An unprecedented number of those who attended for jury service sought to be excused.
The trial was due to resume today with the final empanelling, following a day's reflection on the situation by the presiding judge, Mr Justice Butler.
While this case will now be transferred, the Central Criminal Court will continue next week in Limerick under Mr Justice Butler and will hear other cases.
It is not yet known what judge will hear the murder case in Dublin. Mr Justice Carney, who is in charge of the Central Criminal Court lists, is absent this week, but is due to return next week, when he will decide whether he will hear the case or allocate it to another judge.
Mr Justice Butler adjourned the case on Wednesday to consider the implications of the difficulty of getting a jury. Of the 170 people who were called, about 100 turned up. A large number of medical certificates were handed in and, of the 100 who turned up, many said they would be unable to commit themselves to the trial for various reasons. More than 40 were objected to by counsel for the five accused and for the DPP, leaving 11 sworn in.
Mr James McCarthy (24), Delmege Park, Moyross; Mr David Stanners (31), Pineview Gardens, Moyross; Mr Christopher Costelloe (20), Moylish Avenue, Ballynanty; Mr Anthony McCarthy (21) the Fairgreen; and Mr Dessie Dundon (20), Hyde Road, all in Limerick, pleaded not guilty to the murder of Mr Keane on January 29th and to the attempted murder of his nephew, Mr Owen Treacy.
They also pleaded not guilty to falsely imprisoning the two men on the same date.