Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

He stated that the pathology evidence given by Dr. Marie Cassidy, based on photographs, was less forceful. It led to a change of conviction in that case also.

This is a very important issue. The Taoiseach is the leader of the Government. I am merely seeking that he would reassure the House and through it the public with regard to the integrity of the criminal prosecution system. He ought to have a detailed note on this matter. I am amazed that he is disowning the statement from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. I am amazed that the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform made a statement which the Minister did not front. I am amazed that the Minister sought to create a distraction by stating that reform of the deposition system was necessary and that he intended to introduce law to make that change but he then resiled from that position on the same programme when challenged about it. I am amazed that there was a statement yesterday morning from the Minister that to have two State pathologists could not be contemplated for a variety of reasons best known to an eminent criminal lawyer who uses his position to cow people from asking questions, yet, this morning, we can have two State pathologists.

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