Shatter drawn into pathologist controversy

Controversy surrounding the sudden resignation of the deputy state pathologist has provoked demands for Justice Minister Alan Shatter to make an emergency statement to the Dáil on the matter.

Dr Khalid Jaber’s exit appears to have followed a period of mounting tension with his boss Marie Cassidy.

Justice department officials refused to comment on whether he stood down of his own accord or been asked to do so by Mr Shatter, but insisted the situation would not adversely impact on pending court cases.