Donaldson inquest not until 2009

The inquest into the death of Denis Donaldson has been adjourned until February 2009.

The former Sinn Fein Stormont official and British agent was found dead at an isolated cottage he owned in Donegal more than two years ago.

The decision to adjourn the inquest was made following an application by a Garda superintendent.

He asked the coroner not to proceed due to the ongoing criminal investigation into his death.

Mr Donaldson was expelled from Sinn Fein in December 2005 after admitting he was a paid spy.

He then moved from his Belfast home to live as a recluse in a cottage without electricity or running water. No-one has ever been charged with his murder.