Our Strategy

Strategic Plan 2019-2022

This strategic plan was developed from a significant body of stakeholder engagement, analysis and benchmarking over the last 6 months.

In the second half of 2018, FSI developed a survey to gather feedback from the Garda members that use our services most on a day-to-day basis. In addition, we conducted over 30 individual or group interviews to build a broad stakeholder view of what FSI does well and where we can develop and grow. Interviews were held with senior Garda management, Department of Justice and Equality officials, the Judiciary, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the Courts Services as well as other forensic and scientific bodies. We also reviewed service plans and strategies from other forensic organisations around Europe and beyond. We have engaged with staff to understand some key themes that should be addressed from an employee perspective. This work was supported by a strategy team within FSI, representing sections and roles across the organisation, as well as the senior management team.

The feedback received from stakeholders reflected that FSI delivers a professional and thorough service across many crime types and goes above-and-beyond in delivering its remit. Engagement between customers and our staff is very positive. Customers that engage with staff within FSI on casework are impressed with the level of commitment and professionalism in their dealings.

Constructive feedback was provided in the spirit of continuous improvement, development and growth, and we very much appreciate the openness of our stakeholders in providing it.

There are several key themes that emerged from the feedback:

• • A need for a faster service, covering more cases across all case types within the court systems.
  • A need for a fit-for-purpose facility that supports our mission and reduces risk to the Justice System.
  • A need for a sustained and increased focus on Science, Technology and Innovation, to maintain and develop the services that FSI offers.
  • A need for growing our intelligence-based services, particularly in relation to drugs.
  • A need to continue and improve efficiency and effectiveness that benefits the Justice System.
  • A need for stronger and more strategic engagement within the Irish scientific community in particular, in a way that supports FSI’s mission and improves FSI’s reach.
  • A need to support our staff and management to do their challenging work in the most professional way in an inclusive work environment.