The discovery of body parts at a recycling plant in Dublin is raising questions once again about the lack of a DNA database in Ireland.

Parts of a man's dismembered body were found at the Thornton's Recycling facility on Killeen Road in Ballyfermot last month.

His identity and cause of death have yet to be established.

Yesterday Gardaí confirmed the man had undergone brain surgery in the past, but few other details are known.

Cathal McMahon, Crime Reporter with the Irish Daily Mirror, says a DNA database would be an asset to Gardaí in this investigation:

DNA tests have so far been unable to establish the man's nationality. It is also unclear how he died.

While the cause of death is not known, it is believed he may have died 4 or 5 days before his remains were found.

Gardaí have determined that this male was aged between 25 and 45 years, and between 5-foot-8 and 6-foot in height.

There is also evidence that he had undergone neurosurgery in the past, as neurosurgical screws were in either side of his skull.

Further body parts have been found following extensive searches of up to 1,000 tonnes of domestic and industrial waste.

The search operation has now been concluded at the site.

Investigating Gardaí are asking anyone concerned about the whereabouts of a male relative or friend to come forward.

300 lines of inquiry are being pursued, while over 250 statements have been taken.