Jury selected in Kilkenny postmaster murder trial

A jury of six men and six women have been selected to hear the trial of a man charged with murdering a postmaster in Kilkenny on December 8, 2006.

Shu Shen, formerly of The Old Rectory, New Ross, Co Wexford has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Alan Cunniffe, 32, but guilty to his manslaughter.

Mr Alex Owens SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, told the Central Criminal Court at Dublin this morning, the DPP would not accept the plea.

Shen, aged in his 20s, pleaded guilty to one charge of stealing cash over the value of €13,000.

He also pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with intent to commit robbery.

Mr Justice Paul Carney said the trial was expected to last six days but would not open until tomorrow.

Shen is represented by, Mr Paul Coffey, SC.

The trial proper begins tomorrow.