Drunk Driver 'Unfit' For Appeal

A trial has heard how a man jailed for killing his friend in a car crash while drink driving is unfit to proceed in the court bid.

William Moore's appeal hearing has been adjourned following fears of irrational behaviour on his part due to his condition on arrival from prison.

Moore, 29, from Thorndale Avenue, Belfast, has been sentenced to ten and a half years.

The court heard how Moore was driving over the limit when he overtook another car, before losing control, careering down an embankment and smashing into a tree.

Mr Brown, who had been sitting in the back, died at the scene.

Mr Moore has denied he was driving at the time, claiming the owner of the car had admitted being the driver.

Forensic examination of the vehicle and of Moore's injuries confirmed he was the driver.

His defence barrister, Eugene Grant QC said his fears were backed by prison staff who escorted him from Magilligan Jail.

Investigation Into School Computer Glitch

Education Minister John O’Dowd has ordered an investigation into a school computer glitch that has left primary schools unable to complete assessments.

Mr O’Dowd described it as "a matter of urgency".

A new computer based assessment system was introduced in 900 primary schools in September. Numerous primary schools got in contact with the Council for Curriculum Examinations and Assessments (CCEA) regarding difficulties experienced by pupils when completing the literacy and numeracy assessments.

The Minister said: "I am aware that a number of schools are experiencing technical difficulties when accessing the new statutory computer-based assessments.

"I am obviously concerned at the impact this may have on teachers and, more importantly, on pupils and have asked those involved to make every effort to resolve this issue as a matter of urgency.”

Prisoner Refused Leave For Sick Wife

A remand prisoner at Maghaberry jail has been told he will not be given leave to visit his sick wife.

21-year-old Michael Mongan from Dunmurray faces charges linked to the aggravated burglary of a house near Maghera.

Mr Mongan’s solicitor told district judge Barney McElholm his client's mother was willing to lodge £9,000 of money she had put aside for her daughter’s wedding.

He said she was willing to collect her son from prison and return him afterwards.

Mr McElholm said while he had every sympathy for Mr Mongan's wife, who is in hospital suffering swelling to the brain, he reminded that he was a multiple offender with 69 previous convictions.

Car And School Bus In Collision

A crash involving a car and a school bus has occurred in Belfast.

The incident happened on Finaghy Road North, on the outskirts of the city.

Translink confirmed the bus driver was taken to hospital as a precaution, while Malone College have said two of its pupils who were travelling on the bus were taken to hospital for minor injuries.

The road remains open.

(IT/GK)