Dundalk judge slams lack of Forensic Science Ireland funding after several drug prosecutions stuck out

A local judge hit out at the lack of investment in Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) last week after a number of drug prosecutions were struck out at Dundalk district court because of a delay in certificates of analysis being provided.

Speaking from the bench last Wednesday, Judge Eirinn McKiernan said it was “absolutely scandalous” and argued “It needs to be taken up at some level."

The judge added: “The whole country is destroyed with drugs” but said that no provision was being put in place for analysing the evidence that's seized.

Certificates of analysis which are issued by the FSI are a necessary proof for a successful drugs prosecution to be taken.