Criminals compelled to give DNA samples

Criminals compelled to give DNA samples

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Convicted criminals and suspects detained as part of serious criminal investigations are to be compelled, by force if necessary, to provide DNA samples for a new national database.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter yesterday published a bill for the establishment of a DNA database

By Dan Buckley

The new legislation was welcomed by victim support groups, including Rape Crisis Network Ireland and CARI, the organisation that assists child victims of sexual abuse.

It was also given a guarded welcome by the Irish Council for Civil Liberties.

Making the announcement, Mr Shatter said: I am very pleased to publish this long-awaited legislation which provides for the establishment of a DNA database. I campaigned for such a database for many years in opposition and its establishment is a commitment contained in the Programme for Government.

When I became Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence in 2011, I made it a priority to bring forward comprehensive legislation to facilitate the optimal use of DNA in the fight against crime and to enhance co-operation within the EU and with other countries. In doing this, I was also determined the legislation would fully respect human rights. I am satisfied that we have met all of these objectives.

The database will be used to link crimes, identify suspects in relation to unsolved crimes, and help find or identify missing persons.

See the original post here:
Criminals compelled to give DNA samples