New DNA rules for reunification cases

The HSE is drawing up new protocols for the DNA testing of people involved in family reunification cases after it revealed it could not say how many tests carried out in recent years had not proven a family link.

Nearly 380 tests have been undertaken in the past six years, including 30 last year.

The cases involve minors entering the country, often unaccompanied, or other family members seeking to be reunited with family.