Decision postponed on fitness for trial of accused in Jean McConville case

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Thursday, 10 May 2018 18:39

By Hannah Spratt @Radio_han

By PA reporter

A decision has been postponed on Ivor Bell's fitness to stand trial following one of the most notorious killings in Northern Ireland.

A legal application has been made on behalf of the 81-year-old from West Belfast who is accused of charges linked to the murder of Jean McConville, who was abducted by the IRA in 1972.

A series of legal issues related to the case including a defence application to stay proceedings were discussed at Belfast Crown Court on Thursday.

Judge Adrian Colton said: "I do propose to postpone the decision in the interests of justice and I do that because there is a live issue, a live application for a stay in this matter and I consider it would be in the interests of justice if I rule on that before making a determination."

Bell, from Ramoan Gardens, faces two charges of soliciting murder.

He was not present for the court hearing.