man accused of murdering his daughter Becky was brought to trial.

Mr. Middleton, of Belleville, Ontario, said: "It's very difficult to plan your life when you have this hanging over you.'' He was speaking a day after Justis Smith, now 18, appeared at the arraignments session at Supreme Court and was remanded in custody for mention until September 2.

Smith, Deep Dale Road, Pembroke, is alleged to have committed the premeditated murder of the 17-year-old Canadian schoolgirl visitor on Ferry Reach, St.

George's, more than a year ago.

Mr. Middleton said: "It's been a long time -- we were hoping to have a date set and get on with this.

"I don't know why it's being held up so long. But we would just like to see the whole thing get underway.'' But he added: "We are interested in seeing this get done right, but let's get on with it.

"But it's important to get everything done in a proper manner. If they need extra time, then I guess that's what it takes.'' Attorney General Elliot Mottley, who will lead the prosecution, has consistently refused to comment on the case.

Smith was charged along with Kirk Mundy, 21. Mundy later pleaded guilty to a charge of being an accomplice after the fact and was sentenced to five years in prison last autumn.