Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 January 2026
722. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration the number of full-time equivalent forensic scientists funded by his Department which are currently employed by Forensic Science Ireland; whether there are currently any shortages of staff or unfulfilled staff sanctions for forensic scientists at FSI; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5646/26]
View answerAs Minister for Justice, I am committed to ensuring that the Justice sector has the resources it needs and Government is continuing to invest in the agencies that support this goal, including Forensic Science Ireland (FSI).
Forensic Science Ireland provides a scientific service to the Criminal Justice system by analysing samples submitted from crime scenes and providing expert evidence in criminal trials. FSI employs a range of both scientific and non-scientific staff. Forensic Scientist grades are trained in forensic testing and reporting techniques, supported by a team of Laboratory Analysts, ICT, and administrative professionals working from their state-of-the-art, purpose-built laboratory in Backweston, Celbridge, Co. Kildare.
The current staff numbers at FSI are 206. Of this number, there are 130 Forensic Scientists.
While FSI have some unfilled positions, which include Forensic Scientist Grades, there is ongoing active recruitment.
The entry level recruitment grade is Forensic Scientist Grade III. In 2024, eleven new Forensic Scientists joined FSI. Competitions were held in 2025 and nine forensic scientists from these panels have taken up roles to date and there are an additional six candidates who have been offered roles.
FSI, through publicjobs, also plan to run a Forensic Scientist Grade III recruitment competition in Q1 2026 to ensure that all staff positions are filled.
