The High Court yesterday refused an application by a former religious brother to prevent his trial on 11 charges of indecent assault against three boys from proceeding. The case is due before a court shortly.
Mr Michael Delaney, counsel for the former brother, last Friday sought a declaration that the delay in instituting proceedings against his client had irreparably prejudiced his right to a fair trial.
Counsel also sought an order preventing further steps being taken against his client.
Mr Justice Carney reserved his decision on the matter until yesterday when he told Mr Delaney he was refusing the reliefs sought.
The court has heard that the former brother was charged with the 11 offences in July last. Mr Delaney said eight of the offences alleged against his client dated back 30 years while the other three were alleged to have happened 20 years ago.