Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 14 July 2020
958. Deputy Martin Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the status of the provision of a new national forensic science laboratory; the estimated cost of delivery; when the new laboratory will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15981/20]
View answerAs the Deputy may be aware, Forensic Science Ireland (FSI), an office of my Department, is the State's forensic analysis service and works closely with An Garda Síochána in the investigation of crime and presentation of evidence at criminal trials.
FSI forms a crucial component of the State's criminal justice system and meets a clearly established public need by contributing to the detection of criminal offences and the apprehension and identification of the perpetrators of crime.
The provision of a modern purpose-built Forensic Science Ireland Laboratory has been the subject of discussion and planning for almost 20 years. A proposal, which involves relocating the organisation to a modern purpose-built facility at the State and Agricultural Laboratory complex at Backweston, Co. Kildare, was included in the Public Capital Programme since 2015 and more recently in the National Development Plan. Cabinet gave approval to my predecessor's proposal to proceed with the project on 3rd March 2020.
The main contractor took full possession of the site on 19 March 2020. Work was interrupted by Covid-19 but has since resumed and is proceeding in accordance with the contract. The works over the last number of weeks have consisted primarily of site preparation works, establishment of contractor facilities, foundation works, drainage and preparatory work for hard landscaped areas.
At a cost of €99,518,304 (inclusive of VAT), this new laboratory will provide FSI with a functional, purpose-built facility, achieving best practice standards for evidence processing, analysis and storage. The objective is for a world class facility that meets all relevant standards for FSI's important work. The project represents a significant and important investment in our criminal justice system and is a practical demonstration of the Government’s commitment to investing in the fight against crime.
Projections at this time are for a two year build with completion by July 2022.
