Doctors ‘won’t be blamed’ for shortages

DOCTORS have reacted angrily to reports they are jeopardising the prosecution of rape and sexual assault trials by refusing to carry out vital forensic examinations.

Irish Medical Organisation (IMO) president, Dr James Reilly said that more GPs would work in this area but many did not believe they are either sufficiently trained or paid for such highly sensitive work.

A Sunday newspaper claimed yesterday that the Department of Justice was investigating a refusal by a significant number of GPs to carry out such tests after alleged rapes or sexual assault.