THE date for the trial of student Francis McDermott, for the unlawful killing of former fellow Belcoo schoolboy Oisin McGrath, has been fixed for November.
The date was fixed by Dungannon Crown Court, but not before the defence revealed that its expected report is still awaiting completion.
Judge Stephen Fowler QC said he had "wanted the report by the end of term," which was officially Friday, and while adding he had been "patient", said that he "will be exerting some control".
Martin Rodgers QC for the 19-year-old university student explained while he was "hopeful" that expert Professor Mark Wilson, of Imperial College, London, who had described the case as "unusual and complex", would be in a position to finalise his report, he could not "commit as he had no control over the professor".
The defence lawyer in addition acknowledged the court's patience, and while he "understands the family's concerns" on the delay, added that Prof Wilson's report would be served well in advance of the November trial date.
Barrister Simon Reid for the prosecution voiced the concerns of the McGrath family, telling the court the "delay is causing the family extreme distress and concern, particularly the open-endedness of the provision of the report".
As in previous review hearings, McDermott was excused having to attend. He denies the manslaughter of 13-year-old Oisin, who died on February 9, 2015, fours days following the incident in the playground at St. Michael's College, Enniskillen.
The now university student, from Camphill Park, Newtownbutler, who was 17 at the time of Oisin's death, is currently on his own bail of £500.
