A man accused of the murder of a garda who was shot dead in Co Louth seven years ago lied to gardaí on several occasions and gave a false alibi, the Central Criminal Court in Dublin has heard.

Aaron Brady from New Road, Crossmaglen in Co Armagh has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Detective Garda Adrian Donohoe and to a second charge of robbing €7,000 in cash and cheques on January 25 2013 at the Lordship Credit Union.

As the prosecution case opened, the court heard Garda Donohoe was shot dead as he helped escort two cars with over €34,000 in cash from credit unions in Co Louth.

Four raiders were involved in the robbery.

Senior Counsel Brendan Grehan described said the robbery was "a very slick operation, highly organised, with a lot of people working together as a team".

He said there is evidence linking Aaron Brady, who was 21 at the time, to the crime.

The 28-year-old has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The trial continues today.