Concern over DNA data law

THE Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) is concerned at new legislation proposing the retention of DNA data of innocent people for up to 10 years.

The DPC, Billy Hawkes, said the DNA data of people arrested, but subsequently not charged or acquitted, should be “immediately” destroyed.

Legislation published on Tuesday allows for the establishment of a national DNA database and the retention of DNA samples from those arrested on suspicion of a serious crime, those convicted, those already in prison and former offenders.