Pathologist shortage needs urgent fixing

Increasing drug related violence is putting pressure on the Police's understaffed forensic pathology service, with the Government admitting no long-term solution is likely, says National MP Tony Ryall.

Media reports this morning have confirmed that New Zealand has a considerable shortage of forensic pathologists, the experts who undertake autopsy and other forensic matters for the Police.

"This is the same situation as Environmental Science and Research (ESR). Ministers have known for years about a likely shortage of key personnel, and the only time anything is done is when there's a crisis," said Mr Ryall.

"Ministers are apparently discussing the shortage now. Well, that is three years too late. "The consequence of such a shortage is delays in resolving crimes. "The authorities should be seeking to recruit staff from overseas in the meantime.

"This is yet again more evidence of how Labour is allowing the justice system to fall into disrepair," said Mr Ryall.

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