A date for a Preliminary Enquiry into the case against a candidate in the Fermanagh/South Tyrone election has been fixed for 21 May this year.

Gerry McGeough, who stood as an Independent Republican for this constituency in last year's Assembly elections, faces trial on the charge of the attempted murder of a part-time UDR man in June 1981.

McGeough from Carrycastle Road, Gortmerron, Dungannon, was dramatically arrested after leaving the elections results count at Omagh Leisure Centre. Later that day, his co-accused, Vincent McAnespie (45) of Aghabo Close, Aughnacloy, was also arrested.

The case against the two men has experienced a number of difficulties and delays. These led to Resident Magistrate, John Meehan issuing a warning to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) to deliver results or he would dismiss the charges without prejudice.

At the most recent hearing, a defence solicitor said he was satisfied progress was being made and the case was now back on target. A lawyer for the PPS said the Investigating Officer was due to travel to Sweden to retrieve a file from the Immigration Office. All other information, including details sought from Germany had now been received. A date for both McGeough and McAnespie to face Preliminary Enquiry has been fixed for 21 May, after which the case moves to trial at Crown Court.