New laboratory technology is set to strengthen customs enforcement and scientific analysis in Ireland, while a forthcoming LIMS webinar will showcase practical innovation across the sector. The latest update from the State Laboratory, published through gov.ie, highlights how digital systems and EU-funded equipment are improving public-service laboratory work.
LIMS webinar to highlight laboratory innovation
The State Laboratory is inviting professionals to join a fast-paced online webinar focused on Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). The session will feature a series of 10-minute presentations from organisations discussing their experiences, ideas and solutions.
Participants will hear how different LIMS platforms are being used to modernise laboratory operations, streamline processes and introduce practical improvements to everyday workflows.
- Date: 10 November
- Time: 11:00am–12:00pm
- Format: Online webinar
The event is designed for those interested in laboratory information systems, digital transformation, data management and more efficient scientific services.
State Laboratory receives new customs control equipment
The State Laboratory has secured EU funding for two advanced analytical instruments under the Customs Control Equipment Instrument (CCEI). The programme operates within the Integrated Border Management Fund for the EU’s 2021–2027 budget cycle and supports Member States in purchasing, maintaining and upgrading customs inspection equipment.
The State Laboratory was successful in securing funding in 2024 for:
- A Liquid Chromatograph High Resolution Accurate Mass Spectrometer, known as UHPLC-HRMS/MS.
- A two-dimensional Gas Chromatograph Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer, known as GCxGC-TOFMS.
The equipment is intended to improve the speed, efficiency and impact of analytical services provided to the Revenue Commissioners. It will support enforcement work involving customs duties, excise compliance and the examination of seized substances.
Supporting fuel-duty enforcement
The GCxGC-TOFMS instrument will assist in identifying fraudulent activity connected with the evasion of excise duties on diesel engine road vehicle fuel. This supports the protection of the EU’s financial interests and helps strengthen controls on goods moving across borders.
Improving drug and precursor analysis
The UHPLC-HRMS/MS instrument will help identify and characterise suspected narcotics, drug precursors and pharmaceutical seizures. Its capabilities will cover controlled and prohibited substances while also supporting the detection of emerging drugs and novel psychoactive materials.
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Why the investment matters
Modern analytical instruments can give customs authorities more detailed scientific evidence and help laboratories process complex samples more effectively. The development also demonstrates how EU funding can support national enforcement capacity and improve cooperation between technical services and public bodies.
The State Laboratory’s work complements the wider responsibilities of the Revenue Commissioners in tackling non-compliance while maintaining efficient services for businesses and the public.
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Key takeaway
The State Laboratory’s LIMS webinar offers insight into the future of digital laboratory management, while the new CCEI-funded instruments will enhance customs testing for fuel-duty fraud, narcotics and emerging substances. Together, these developments show how technology is strengthening Ireland’s scientific and enforcement infrastructure.
Article/Image Courtesy: gov.ie