Large crowds gathered in Kilkenny city last night for the removal of Alan Cunniffe, the postmaster who died last Friday after being shot while pursuing an armed robber.
People lined the approaches to St Canice's Church where his coffin was received by Fr Martin Delaney. Mourners were led by Mr Cunniffe's mother, Muriel, his brothers Declan, James, Enda and Thomas, and sisters Ann, Muriel and Emily.
Members of local GAA clubs formed a guard of honour at the church entrance, where parish priest Fr Jim Murphy received the representative of President Mary McAleese, aide-de- camp Capt Mick Treacy.
Kilkenny City Council adjourned its monthly meeting after passing a vote of sympathy and the mayor Martin Brett and other councillors left to attend the removal. The attendance also included senior An Post representatives including chairwoman Margaret McGinley and chief executive Donal Connell.
Post offices throughout the State will close from noon to 1pm today and all An Post staff will observe a two- minute silence at noon. The Taoiseach will be represented at today's funeral at noon.