Judge Says Lady Donaldson Faces Genuine Medical Issues
A judge has ruled that there are "genuine medical issues" in the case of Lady Eleanor Donaldson, who is on trial with her husband, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, on sexual assault charges.
Judge Paul Ramsey was speaking during a brief hearing at Newry Crown Court.
He has scheduled the next hearing for January 23.
The couple, who have denied a total of 23 charges, were due to stand trial earlier this month, but it was postponed due to Lady Donaldson's health.
Sir Jeffrey, 62, former leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), is charged with 18 offenses, including rape.
Lady Donaldson, 59, faces five charges related to aiding and abetting.
These offenses were allegedly committed between 1985 and 2008.
At Thursday's hearing, the court was told that two medical reports on Lady Donaldson had been prepared, but another one was needed.
Judge Ramsay said the public might wonder why the case was taking so long to hear.
He added: "The reality is that genuine medical issues have been identified and they need to be explored before we proceed further.
"That is simply the way it is."
A prosecution lawyer said the alleged victims had been informed.
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