§ 2. Rev Martin Smyth (Belfast South)What plans he has to build a new forensic centre. [73999]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr. Desmond Browne)We are committed to providing alternative accommodation for the Forensic Science Agency and have accepted the recommendation in the criminal justice review that new dedicated accommodation would be desirable. The Forensic Science Agency of Northern Ireland. with the Department, is in the process of engaging consultancy advice to take forward a project to meet its long-term accommodation needs.
§ Rev. Martin SmythMay I welcome the Under-Secretary's two new colleagues to the Front Bench, although I am sure that we all wish them a short stay in the Province?
I thank the hon. Gentleman for taking a positive step forward after the 10 years or so since the premises were demolished. Does he agree that the need for the Forensic Science Agency of Northern Ireland is as vital as ever? I pay tribute to its work and remind him that staff cuts have left the service short-handed in light of the new bombing campaigns.
§ Mr. BrowneOn behalf of my new colleagues, I thank the hon. Gentleman for his welcome. They share his hope that devolution is restored to Northern Ireland sooner rather than later.
261 The hon. Gentleman is right to highlight the significant contribution that the Forensic Science Agency of Northern Ireland has made to the investigation of crime. In many respects, it is a world leader. The service has put up with unsuitable accommodation for too long. It is fair to point out that it provides services for both prosecution and defence. It is seen to be independent of both, and its standing nationally and internationally has never been higher.