Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy will appreciate that the prosecution of offences is a function which is reserved to the DPP who is fully independent in that area and it is up to her to determine how a particular prosecution should be dealt with. That being said, I have been advised generally that the resignation of Dr. Khalid Jaber from the post of Deputy State Pathologist should not prevent the prosecution of cases where he has carried out medical examinations. In this context, Dr. Jaber can be called as a witness for the prosecution to give evidence before the relevant court and I understand that he has indicated a willingness to make himself available for court proceedings. If, however, Dr. Jaber is not available, the file will, in accordance with the established practice in such matters, I am advised, be dealt with by another pathologist who will give evidence to the court.

I have also been informed that the State Pathologist, Professor Cassidy, has put the necessary operational arrangements in place to take account of the resignation of Dr. Jaber. In addition, the question of finding a replacement for him is being actively pursued by my Department and the filling of the post has been approved by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.

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