Trial of prisoner delayed over fears wearing of PPE would interfere with right to fair trial

Judge adjourned the case, saying he was worried the man’s constitutional right to a fair trial would be at risk by the requirement to wear hazmat suits during proceedings

Prisoner is being held at Cloverhill Prison, Dublin, where staff are currently trying to combat an outbreak of Covid-19. Picture: Niall Carson/PA Wire

The forthcoming trial of a remand prisoner has been delayed after it emerged  the accused would have to appear before the court in full personal protective equipment (PPE).

Adjourning the case, Mr Justice Paul McDermott said he was worried the man’s constitutional right to a fair trial would be at risk by the requirement to wear hazmat suits during proceedings.