Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour)
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574. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of tenders received for the construction of the new State forensics laboratory by the closing date of 20 December 2017; the likely timeframe to assess the tenders; when construction is likely to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1516/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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The construction of the new Forensic Science Laboratory is being managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) on behalf of my Department.

The position is that no tenders have yet been received for the construction of the new Forensic Science Laboratory at the Backweston Campus. Owing to the complexity of the project and recent changes in international Forensic Laboratory Standards it is necessary to add further material to the tender documentation. Forensic Science Ireland and the Project Design Team are currently examining the issues involved which relate primarily to laboratory interior finishes and mechanical and electrical adjustments. The relevant contractors have been apprised of the situation and the tender submission date has been deferred. Revised tender documents will be issued in due course and the relevant contractors will be given advance notice of when this is to occur.

In the meantime the separate enabling works for the laboratory will continue at the Backweston Site.  I can assure the Deputy that the Government is fully committed to the delivery of the new Forensic Science Laboratory Project at the Backweston Campus and that the multi-annual budget required for it is included in the Government's Ten Year Capital Programme.