Limerick man John Dundon will go on trial in June next year for the murder of Garryowen rugby player Shane Geoghegan.
Dundon (29), who was granted legal aid last month, was not present for this morning’s hearing in the case but appeared via video-link from Portlaoise prison.
Last August, Dundon, with a last address at Hyde Road, Limerick, was charged with the murder of 28-year-old Shane Geoghegan at Clonmore, Kilteragh, Dooradoyle, Limerick, on November 9th, 2008.
The case was brought before the non-jury Special Criminal Court as the Director of Public Prosecutions certified that the ordinary courts were inadequate to secure the administration of justice.
Tom O'Connell SC, for the State, this morning told the court the prosecution was seeking a date at the beginning of June next year for the trial, which he said was expected to last three to four weeks.
Counsel for Dundon, Shane O'Callaghan BL, asked that the matter be listed for mention rather than for trial, as his client was appealing a March 2012 conviction for making threats to kill.
Mr Justice Paul Butler, presiding, said such matters should not delay the process, and the court would list the matter for trial but would hear any application to put it back.
Mr Justice Butler, sitting with Judge Margaret Heneghan and Judge William Hamill, said the court would remand the accused in custody to appear before the non-jury court for trial on June 4th, 2013.
John Dundon whistled at the camera and retired by saying "good luck" as he was led off-screen.