Minister for Justice Heather Humphreys T.D. has welcomed the significant capital allocations granted to the Justice Sector under the National Development Plan 2021-2030, launched today in Cork. The Government has committed to investing over €270m every year for the next five years in capital projects in the Justice Sector, which represents a significant increase on recent years.
This investment will provide for the completion of vital projects including a new laboratory for Forensic Science Ireland in Backweston, a family law complex at Hammond Lane and redevelopment work at Limerick Prison.
In addition to these projects, the capital investment will also allow for –
- Increased Investment in modernisation and reform programmes across the Justice sector including increased ICT expenditure in digital services, modernising service delivery, improving efficiency, reducing paper and providing data informed insights into policy development.
- Continuing investment in building and refurbishment projects across the Justice sector in new and refurbished Garda stations, in court buildings, prisons and a PPP to develop two Garda stations (Clonmel and Macroom) in conjunction with the development of a family law complex at Hammond Lane.
- Continuing investment in Garda Transport Fleet including the deployment of electrical vehicles where appropriate to ensure that An Garda Síochána has a modern, effective and fit for purpose fleet
Minister Humphreys is also pleased to note the National Development Plan’s commitment to support the development of new accommodation/refuges for victims of domestic, sexual and gender based violence.
Tackling the scourge of domestic, sexual and gender based violence is a priority for Minister Humphreys and the Government. Minister Humphreys is working with her colleagues Ministers O’Gorman and Naughton on a new national strategy, which is expected to be published by the end of the year.
Welcoming the investment, Minister Humphreys said;
“Today’s announcement reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring the Justice Sector is well resourced and in a strong position to combat any challenges that may arise over the coming years. It will be key in helping us achieve our aim of building a justice system that works for everyone.
“Projects such as the FSI’s new laboratory in Backweston and the Hammond Lane Family Law complex are absolutely vital in realising this.
“In addition, further investment in the ICT infrastructure of the Department of Justice will help us towards realising the targets set out in the Justice Plan 2021, including improving accessibility and helping us embrace a Digital First agenda.”
Notes for editors
Today's publication outlines the largest National Development Plan ever delivered in the history of the State - €165 billion - with a particular focus on priority solutions to strengthen housing, climate ambitions, transport, healthcare, jobs growth in every region and economic renewal for the decade ahead. This plan will prepare Ireland for population growth of approximately 1 million people between 2016 and 2040, and help to deal with the ongoing challenges of Covid-19 and Brexit.
A copy of the National Development Plan is available at: https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/774e2-national-development-plan-2021-2030/.