Vol. 546 No. 5
38 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the claim made by IMPACT that almost 5,000 criminal cases were being delayed for up to six months due to staff shortages in the State's forensic science laboratory; the steps being taken to address the staff shortages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32080/01]
As the Deputy may be aware, the workload of the forensic science laboratory has been on the increase in recent years. The Government's approach to dealing with the interlinked problems of drugs, crime and social disadvantage and Garda operations, such as Dóchas and Cleanstreet, have resulted in significant drug seizures and continue to prove effective in targeting on-street drug dealing.
I am aware that these operations, in addition to the dramatic increase this year arising from the foot and mouth situation, in referrals to the laboratory of cattle ear tags for examination, and other factors, have led to an increase in the workload of the forensic science laboratory.
In relation to the processing of evidence I am informed that the management of the laboratory has instituted a procedure where any cases, where they are notified that the result is urgently required, are expedited. The quality of the forensic evaluation and evidence provided by the forensic science laboratory to the courts has always been held in high esteem. It is my intention to ensure that this situation will continue and that no prosecutions will be dropped or cases collapse due to delays in the processing of evidence by the laboratory.
