The trial of two south Armagh men for the murder of a Newry postal worker, Mr Frank Kerr, is to go ahead later this month before a new High Court judge.
After more than two weeks of legal submissions and pre trial applications Mr Justice Kerr yesterday discharged himself from hearing the case at the request of defence lawyers. He said that in view of the fact that disclosure of certain matters had been necessary and had taken place, he felt it would be inappropriate for him to continue with the case.
Mr Kerr (54) was shot and fatally wounded during an armed robbery at a Newry sorting office on November 10th, 1994.
Mr Declan McComish (28), from Regina Park, and Mr Kevin Patrick Donegan (39), of Bayview, Jonesborough, deny the charges.
The case is to be mentioned at Belfast Crown Court on Monday when it is hoped a new trial date will be set.