Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 302: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide additional resources and funding to the Forensic Science Laboratory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24893/09]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I can inform the Deputy that despite the difficult budget situation, funding to the Forensic Science Laboratory has been increased in 2009. This has followed on from substantial increases in the order of 37% in the previous 3 years, 2006 to 2008, which has reflected the growing demand for the service. Also, the authorised staffing complement of the Forensic Science Laboratory has been increased by over 30 posts since December 2006. This substantial extension of the Forensic Science Laboratory's capacity represents an increase of almost 50% in approved staffing. Taking everything into consideration, I am satisfied that the Laboratory has sufficient funding and resources to carry out its current functions.