A former primary school teacher is to stand trial on historical allegations of sexually abusing nine boys, a judge ordered today.
Paul Dunleavy, who taught as a member of the Christian Brothers, appeared at Belfast Magistrates Court to face 37 charges.
The 88-year-old, with an address on Glen Road in the west of the city, is accused of multiple counts of indecent assault on a male.
The alleged offences were committed over a 27-year period between 1964 and 1991.
During his teaching career Dunleavy worked at primary schools in Newry and Belfast.
At a preliminary enquiry he confirmed that he understood the charges against him but declined to give evidence or call any witnesses.
Defence solicitor Paul Dougan did not contest submissions that his client has a prima facie case to answer.
No further details were disclosed during the brief hearing.
Granting the prosecution’s application, District Judge George Conner told the accused: “You will be returned for trial at the Crown Court in Belfast on a date to be fixed.”
Dunleavy, who remains in custody, will appear again for arraignment at a future stage.