Poll: Is a DNA database a good idea?

Proposals to set up a new database are being published today – but is it a good idea?

By Hugh O'Connell Wednesday 11 Sep 2013, 9:39 AM

Sep 11th 2013, 9:39 AM 7,172 Views 156 Comments

https://jrnl.ie/1078447

Image: DNA Fingerprinting or DNA Profiling via Shutterstock

Image: DNA Fingerprinting or DNA Profiling via Shutterstock

THE GOVERNMENT IS expected to publish legislation later today that will allow for the setting up of a new DNA database in Ireland.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter will set out the details of the new bill, but so far we know that the new law will compel sex offenders, criminals convicted of serious crimes, and those suspected of serious crimes to provide their DNA for the new database.

The database will help to solve crimes and trace missing persons, but civil liberties groups and others may have concerns about the indefinite retention of people’s information if the Garda Commissioner deems it necessary.

But what do you think? Is a DNA database a good idea?

Poll Results:

No (1733)

Yes (1593)

Don't know (298)

More: Serious criminals will have DNA logged on database from next year

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Hugh O'Connell

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Poll: Is a DNA database a good idea?

Proposals to set up a new database are being published today – but is it a good idea?