Trials in jeopardy as just 70 out of 500 people appear for jury service

The Central Criminal Court came close to not having enough jurors this week after less than one-fifth of those called for jury duty turned up.

Mr Justice Paul Carney remarked on Tuesday that he would have great difficulty swearing in enough jurors after only about 70 people showed up, out of the 500 who were summonsed.

Four trials were due to take place this week, two for murder and two for rape. Enough jurors were present for three trials to proceed while a fourth was adjourned because of a shortage of judges.