A senior barrister has raised concerns over potential delays in the trial related to the 2019 Greenvale Hotel crush tragedy, citing ongoing issues with the prosecution’s disclosure of evidence. Greg Berry KC expressed apprehension that the trial, initially scheduled to begin next month, may not proceed as planned due to incomplete disclosure of key material, including police notebooks and hotel CCTV footage.

The tragedy occurred on St. Patrick’s Night, March 17, 2019, at the Greenvale Hotel in Cookstown, County Tyrone, when a large crowd of young people queued to enter an event. A sudden surge caused the queue to collapse, resulting in the deaths of three teenagers—Lauren Bullock, 17, Morgan Barnard, 17, and Connor Currie, 16—who died of compression asphyxia.

Two individuals face manslaughter and health and safety violation charges in connection with the incident. Michael McElhatton, 59, the hotel owner from Rock Road, Moneymore, County Derry, and Seamus Mitchell, 47, a member of the hotel security staff from Mullan Road, Coagh, have both pleaded not guilty.

During a recent court hearing, prosecution counsel Charles MacCreanor indicated that the process of disclosure was “ongoing but not yet complete,” prompting the trial’s postponement. The case has been rescheduled to commence in the New Year to allow time for the defence to receive all relevant evidence.

Mr Justice Fowler announced he would conduct a further review of the case’s status on September 24, with the progress of disclosure remaining under close scrutiny by the court and legal parties as preparations for trial continue.