Forensic pathology services in Northern Ireland are to be centralised and an additional assistant state pathologist recruited, it was announced today.
The move is part of a major shake-up of the service which Criminal Justice Minister Mr John Spellar said would aid the maintenance of the three-day burial tradition.
Unveiling his decision to centralise services he said: "Consolidating forensic pathology services in one location is without doubt the best way forward to secure the long term future of quality forensic pathology services."
Over 90 per cent of respondents to a public consultation were in favour of centralisation, he said.
Mr Spellar added: "I am acutely aware of the need to maintain a sustainable, forensic pathology service and the importance of respecting the three-day burial tradition in Northern Ireland.
"I am certain that unifying the service in one location, together with the recruitment of an additional assistant state pathologist will achieve this."
Temporary centralisation at weekends had already been in operation for more than two years and had proved very effective in making the best possible use of forensic pathologists time and scarce skills, he said.