Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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272. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the amount of funding provided under the capital plan 2016 to 2021 for the construction of the forensic science laboratory in County Kildare; the amount spent to date; the expected completion date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3197/18]

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.

In the region of €1.33 million has been spent to date on a package of enabling works at the Backweston site.

I am pleased that significant financial provision has been made for the completion of the laboratory. However, the Deputy can appreciate that the cost of construction and fit-out will only be known once the tendering process is complete.

The submission date for tenders for the main construction works has recently been deferred as, owing to the complexity of the project and recent changes in international Forensic Laboratory Standards, it will be 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 objective is to progress the tender competition as soon as possible.

There will be substantial construction work carried out over the next two years or so and I would expect the new laboratory to be ready in early 2021.