Gardaí have been given leads in 350 burglaries, 52 robberies, 10 assaults, six murders, and five sexual assaults thanks to the new DNA database.

Gardaí are hoping that forensic tests and CCTV footage will provide crucial evidence in their investigation into the shocking murder of Neil Reilly in west Dublin on Wednesday.

The State’s forensic science chief has described as cynical the Government’s decision to delay funding for a much-needed forensic laboratory until 2019.

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has ordered her officials to “reactivate” shelved plans to build a proper laboratory for the State’s neglected forensic science agency.