Forensics labs ‘not fit for purpose as agency is overloaded’

Forensic Science Ireland is not only struggling with labs that are not fit for purpose but is also facing a casework load that “significantly” outweighs its capacity.

As a result, it says there are backlogs in key areas, including testing seizures of hardcore illegal drugs.

In his first annual report since taking up the role five months ago, FSI’s new director general Chris Enright said: “It is clear that the current infrastructure is not fit-for-purpose for a modern advanced forensics organisation.”