The OSP provides independent expert advice on forensic pathology and performs post-mortem examination in criminal, suspicious or unusual deaths. State pathologists are often required to attend and give evidence in coronial, criminal or civil courts.

The report details the wide range of valuable work conducted by the OSP in 2025, during which 311 cases were dealt with, of which 189 were State forensic cases.

Attendance at the scene of death was recorded in approximately 6 per cent of cases. This is decreasing due to advanced technologies used by crime scene investigators.

The OSP, at the direction of the Dublin District Coroner, carried out 76 adult non-suspicious post-mortem examinations.

As part of their teaching role, pathologists also spent approximately 210 hours lecturing in academic institutions as well as to An Garda Síochána and the Military Police.

Mr O’Callaghan said: “The Office of the State Pathologist carries out a critical service. I would like to thank the Chief State Pathologist, Professor Linda Mulligan, her team of forensic pathologists, and the wider office and laboratory team, for their unwavering commitment and professionalism in carrying out an often difficult and complex service for deceased people and bereaved loved ones.

“In addition to their crucial work, the Office of the State Pathologist continues to provide objective and evidence-based expert forensic advice to a variety of groups and to educate government bodies, An Garda Síochána, the military police, and medical schools in universities across Ireland on the field of forensic pathology.

“The Government and the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration supports the Office of the State Pathologist with the aim of providing the highest possible standard of service to bereaved families and loved ones across Ireland. I was pleased to announce an increase in funding to €2.27 in 2026 from €1.8 million in 2025 to support this work.”

Introducing the report, Chief State Pathologist, Professor Linda Mulligan said: “The OSP welcomes the ongoing support from the department. With plans for a full complement of staff in 2026 and the potential of a new dedicated forensic mortuary, we look forward to re-energising our research potential, engaging and guiding new staff members and continuing the objective and high quality service it has always provided.”

The Office of the State Pathologist is an independent agency under the aegis of the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.