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Forensic Science Ireland Laboratory

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 12 December 2018

Wednesday, 12 December 2018

Ceisteanna (88)

Brendan Ryan

Ceist:

88. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if tenders have been reinvited from the short-list of building contractors for a laboratory (details supplied) in County Kildare; if so, the closing date for receipt of tenders; when construction will commence and cease on the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52377/18]

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Freagraí scríofa

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is managing the delivery of the new Forensic Science Laboratory at the Backweston campus.

The Deputy should be aware that enabling works for Forensic Science Ireland that commenced in October 2017 have now been completed.

However, due to recent changes in international forensic laboratory standards, the merging of the Garda Technical Bureau with Forensic Science Ireland and changes to staff numbers, it was necessary to add further material to the tender documentation. Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) and the OPW design team are currently examining the issues involved, which relate primarily to laboratory interior finishes and mechanical and electrical adjustments.

Once this examination has been completed, the OPW will review all tender documentation and intends to re-issue a complete set of documents in Q4 2018. As this process is still ongoing, it is not possible at this stage to give exact timeframes for the procurement process for contractors. When the construction contract for the main building is placed, the estimated construction period is 24 months followed by a validation and test period prior to occupation.

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