Lawyers in the Thomas Ted Barrett murder trial met with a judge behind closed doors Monday in Nova Scotia Supreme Court to argue over the admissibility of a videotaped statement made by a witness who is now dead.

The Sydney courtroom was closed to the public and reporters because the discussion could involve police informant confidentiality.

The witness, Sheryl Flynn, told police in 2012 that Barrett, 40, admitted he strangled Brett Elizabeth MacKinnon, 21. Flynn died less than a year later of a drug overdose.

Barrett is charged with second-degree murder in the death of MacKinnon of Glace Bay. She disappeared in 2006, and her remains were found by hunters near Glace Bay two years later.

Crown attorney Diane McGrath said outside the courtroom that arguments over the admissibility of evidence are taking longer than first anticipated.

She expects testimony from witnesses to resume on Tuesday.

The trial was adjourned last week to allow time for the Crown and police to locate a key witness. Barrett's ex-girlfriend, Ashley MacDonald, now lives out West.

Crown attorney Kathy Pentz has said she expects MacDonald will return to testify.