Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

My understanding is that he recommended 30 posts, and we have more than 30 extra people, which is a 50% increase in the staffing complement in a short time. This is a good story, because the resources were put in place, and so many staff were employed that they had to move out into an extended location. It is a good thing that so many people are working in the laboratory, albeit in two locations. That is why we need a new location.

On the issue of examination by the Garda, Professor Kopp was dealing with the historical issue. There has been big investment in the past two years, and I am not aware of any problems.

My Department has taken a hit in other soft areas, as they are known, for which the Deputy has criticised me in the House. However, I make no apology for targeting the resources I have as much as possible on the fight against crime, which is one reason I have ensured that substantial resources are available to the Forensic Science Laboratory.

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