Law reform body calls for DNA database

The Law Reform Commission (LRC) is recommending that a limited DNA database should be set up for use in criminal investigations…

The Law Reform Commission (LRC) is recommending that a limited DNA database should be set up for use in criminal investigations and proceedings.

The commission proposes legislation that would establish a statutory body, the forensic science agency, that would incorporate the Forensic Science Laboratory and would be the custodian of the DNA database.

The LRC recommends the database should include DNA from deceased persons, both victims of crimes and, in certain circumstances, those suspected of crimes.

The recommendation comes in the final report on the subject from the commission. This follows the publication of a consultation paper on the subject in March 2004, on foot of a request from the Attorney General (AG).

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The Government, through the AG, seeks the views of the commission when contemplating new legislation that could be difficult or complex. The AG will publish the report later today.