Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

On Forensic Science Ireland, FSI, and its merger with the Garda Technical Bureau, a committee is involved in this and its work is ongoing with a view to the merger having taken place prior to the opening date of the laboratory in 2020 or 2021. The new facility in County Kildare will be managed by the OPW. It is one of the most important pieces of infrastructure currently under construction. A total of €9 million is being provided for that this year which is earmarked for the main construction on this site. The full cost of the construction and fit-out will only be known once the tendering process is complete, which is expected in the second quarter of 2018. The ongoing costs will be fully monitored but we are anxious to ensure that this new laboratory will be ready in 2020 or early 2021.

On the decision support services, €3 million has been provided in a new subhead, D10, of the justice Vote. That will necessitate new administrative processes and support measures including the setting up of the dedicated decision support services in the mental health commission. That will have to be put in place prior to the substantive provisions of the Act can be commenced. There is a high level steering group of senior officials from the Departments of Justice and Health, the Court Services, and the Mental Health Commission. Its work is ongoing.

Members will be aware of the urgent need to ensure revised resourcing for GSOC. I am very anxious to ensure that GSOC is equipped with the necessary resources to carry out its work at all times. Funding is constantly kept under review. I am very keen to ensure that GSOC works effectively and efficiently. A process is under way and I received a business case some weeks ago. It is under active consideration by my Department and the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and I expect an early decision on the matter.