Clare man denies murder

A Co Clare man has denied the murder and false imprisonment of a 21-year-old man near a village in Co Tipperary in December of 1998.

In the Central Criminal Court, Michael Sage (26), pleaded not guilty to the murder of John Carroll (21) of Mullally Grove, Cappamore, Co Limerick, at Gurraun, Ballinahinch, Newport, Co Tipperary on December 4, 1998.

Sage also denied a second charge of false imprisonment of Mr Carroll on the same date.

His trial is due to begin later this afternoon before Mr Justice Carney and a jury.