Building of forensic lab could begin earlier

Tánaiste Frances Fitzgerald is exploring funding options which could bring forward the construction of a new facility for the State’s forensic science service.

A Department of Justice briefing document, published over the weekend, said Forensic Science Ireland was in “critical need” of a new laboratory. It said the continuing absence of proper laboratory facilities could “undermine” court proceedings and create “immense” reputational damage.

Under current capital plans, construction is not due to begin until 2019, with an estimated three-year completion date.