"We are keeping an open mind in this investigation and we are following all avenues of enquiry," said Inspector Seamus Ruane from Roxboro Garda Station, where over 50 gardaí, including specialist detectives from the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, are working on the case.

"Everyone is aware in the wider Limerick area that there is a feud situation in the city, but it is not the only avenue of enquiry," the inspector said.

Meanwhile, Justice Minister Dermot Ahern has said the government will leave no stone unturned to assist gardai in capturing Shane Geoghegan's killer.

"I have spoken to the Garda Commissioner and I have given him a clear message and he fully accepts it, whatever he requires from a legislative point of view or from a resource point of view he will have from the government in relation to this murder."

The minister attended a meeting with Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy this morning to discuss the investigation into Shane's murder, and the escalating problem of gangland crime in the city which spilled into the quiet Kilteragh housing estate in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Garryowen match fixtures this weekend have been cancelled and a meeting is taking place between Munster Rugby and Thomond Park officials about how to commemorate the local rugby hero during the upcoming All-Black clash.

The body of Shane Geoghegan is reposing in his mother's home in Kilteragh ahead of funeral mass at St Joseph's church tomorrow morning. There was an outpouring of grief as teammates walked from the Garryowen RFC club house to the wake last night.

The rugby captain will be laid to rest at Mungret cemetery tomorrow afternoon.

A special mass to honour his life will also take place at the club house in Dooradoyle on Friday evening.