The prosecution yesterday closed its case in the trial of a man accused of murdering his Naval Service crewmate on the L.E Eithne.
Earlier, Deputy State Pathologist Dr Marie Cassidy told the Central Criminal Court that a post-mortem showed the deceased was assaulted before he went overboard.
She said in her opinion, Able Seaman Brian Gorey died from drowning.
However, she noted there were a number of injuries to the head, arms and trunk consistent with an assault.
The head injuries, she said, could not be explained by falling into the water.
She told the court the deceased had a blood alcohol level of 226mgs and was "moderately intoxicated" at the time of death.
Dr Cassidy was giving evidence in the trial of apprentice ship mechanic Mr Seán Lundon (21), James Connolly Park, Tipperary town. Mr Lundon denies the murder of Able Seaman Brian Gorey (21), Devon Close, Castletroy View, Limerick, at Sir John Rogerson's Quay, Dublin, on April 22nd, 2001.
Asked by Mr Tom O'Connell SC as to the cause of death, Dr Cassidy replied: "In my opinion, his death was due to drowning."
Dr Cassidy was then handed an exhibited broom handle and asked if the injuries she described could be caused by such an instrument. "Yes", she replied.
Cross-examined by Brendan Grehan SC, defending, Dr Cassidy said the injuries to Mr Gorey may have caused temporary concussion or unconsciousness but he was alive going into the water.
The trial continues on Monday with closing speeches.