The trial of a Co Galway publican, charged with the sexual abuse of a young man during the 1970s, which was due to start at Galway Circuit Criminal Court yesterday (Wednesday ) has been deferred to next year.
The man, who may not be named for legal reasons, faces seven counts of indecently assaulting a male between 1974 and 1976, in a Co Galway town.
Prosecuting State barrister Remi Farrell told the court there would be complexities in the trial, which he said, would last at least three days.
Defence barrister Conal McCarthy interrupted proceedings at 10.40am to inform Judge Raymond Groarke and the jury panel called to try the case, that his client was not present in court and was delayed in traffic due to road works.
Judge Groarke adjourned the matter for 15 minutes until the accused man arrived in court.
Mr McCarthy then apologised to the court on behalf of his client for causing delay and he indicated that a number of pre-trial applications would be made by the defence team prior to any trial taking place.
Judge Groarke told the jury panel that the trial of Anthony McDonagh, which is at hearing at the moment, was not likely to finish by Thursday and he said there was no likelihood that he could start and finish this other trial this week.
He dismissed the jury panel and adjourned the matter to January 13 next, when a date for the trial will be fixed.
