Rape trial nears end

Closing stages have been reached in the Central Criminal Court trial of a Tipperary man accused of raping a woman as she slept in her father's house after celebrating her 19th birthday.

The 26-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to raping her in Tipperary on November 21, 2004.

The jury of six men and six women has heard closing speeches from prosecuting counsel, Ms Pauline Walley SC (with Mr Garnet Orange BL), and defence counsel, Mr Giollaiosa O Lideadha SC (with Mr Carl Hanahoe BL), and will begin its deliberations after being charged by Mr Justice George Bermingham.