Former State forensic scientist Dr James Donovan, who survived a car-bomb assassination attempt by Martin ‘The General’ Cahill more than 40 years ago, has died aged 80.
Dr Donovan provided evidence for several high-profile cases which, according to Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan, was “crucial to the prosecution of some of the most notorious criminals” in Ireland.
Originally from Co Cork, Dr Donovan was the first head of the State’s forensic science laboratory, established in 1975, a role he held until his retirement in 2002.
He survived a car-bomb assassination attempt in 1982 by Cahill, who was facing armed robbery charges backed up by forensic evidence from Dr Donovan.
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He suffered life-altering injuries to his legs, foot and hand, and lifelong pain as a result of the attack which left his sight impaired.
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However, he “determinedly continued his work up to his retirement more than 20 years later” following the 1982 assassination attempt, Mr O’Callaghan said. He described Dr Donovan as “a great servant of the State”.
“A groundbreaking director of Forensic Science Ireland from its establishment in 1975, Jim was the fledgling service’s first employee and, along with a very small team of dedicated colleagues, he established the discipline of forensics in Ireland.
“Through a very dark time in our country’s history, his scientific work and fearless evidence was crucial to the prosecution of some of the most notorious criminals of the day.”
The Minister said Dr Donovan “maintained his interest in forensics” later in life and that the current generation of forensic scientists “were delighted to meet him last year at the opening of the new laboratory”.
“I extend my deepest sympathy to Jim’s wife Mary and his former colleagues in FSI and An Garda Síochána. Ní fheicimid a leithéid arís ann,” he said.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, meanwhile, said Dr Donovan was at the forefront of establishing forensic science as a key part of crime investigation in Ireland.
“Dr Donovan was a leading expert in his field, overcame threats and survived a murder attempt to continue to do his vital work. This demonstrated his incredible determination and commitment to the pursuit of justice.
“Jim was a regular visitor to Garda Headquarters and he will be sorely missed by all in An Garda Síochána – both serving and retired – who had the pleasure of speaking to him and learning from his vast expertise,” he said.
