Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 299: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the situation in the forensic science laboratory with regard to its annual budget and staffing levels; if, in view of recent announcements regarding the establishment of a DNA database, it is intended to increase the staffing levels at the forensic science laboratory; the number, grades and timeframe of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3428/06]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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A provision of €5.11 million is included in my Department's Estimates for 2006 in respect of the forensic science laboratory — an 8% increase on the 2005 budget — and the number of authorised posts is 69.5. The staffing and other resource implications arising from the establishment of a DNA database are currently being examined by my Department in conjunction with the forensic science laboratory. As the Deputy may also be aware, a new building is to be provided for the laboratory and my Department is in discussions with the Office of Public Works regarding the planning of this facility.