The creation of a DNA database had greatly enhanced crime fighting in other jurisdictions, and would have the same effect in the Republic, according to the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (ASTI).
The association's deputy general secretary, John Redmond, said a database introduced into Wales was helping secure 50 per cent of convictions in some categories of crime. "It would be a huge leap forward. Civil liberties issues have been raised in relation to itbut the benefits far outweigh the negatives."
Mr Redmond was speaking after delegates heard calls for the association's national executive to press Minister for Justice Michael McDowell to establish a database. Mr McDowell has indicated he would be in favour of such a move, saying he did not believe the taking of DNA from criminals would violate their human rights.
The plan is currently under preliminary review.
The AGSI is in favour of DNA being taken from any person convicted of an offence that carries a prison sentence of five years or more.
The association has also called for a clear policy on handling informers. The call comes as the force reviews its practices in the wake of the publication of the interim report of the Morris tribunal.
Much of the misconduct by gardaí in Donegal highlighted in the report stemmed from the exploitation by some officers of the lack of a clear policy and system of checks and balances around using informers.
The AGSI wants specialist training in this regard to be given to all members of the force.
General secretary Pat Flynn said using informers had always been a sensitive area, and the tribunal had raised serious issues. It was now time for an official policy to be put in place.
He said training was currently offered to members of the force in this area but it was inadequate.
Improved training could highlight the pitfalls for gardaí of using informers, and it would also help members assess the information they were receiving, and decide how best to use that information.