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

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.

Jean McConville was abducted by the IRA (PA)
Jean McConville was abducted by the IRA (PA)

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.

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