The ability to identify individuals based on their unique genetic makeup is a major tool in the investigation of serious crime.
Over the last 20 years, DNA profiling has become a key component in the investigation of serious crime. Without DNA, many killers might still be at large.
In the case of the murder of Marilyn Rinn in 1995, samples were taken from more than 200 men. Her killer, David Lawlor, was brought to justice. More recently, Cork man Conor Downey was convicted of attempted rape 15 years ago. Former army man John Crerar was also convicted for the murder of Phyllis Murphy as a result of DNA profiling.
The Law Reform Commission has now provisionally recommended the development of a DNA database for criminal investigations in Ireland. Raymond Byrne, Law Reform Commission, notes that DNA can also be used to exclude people from an investigation.
It's a very important investigative tool.
The Irish Council for Civil Liberties questions the need for such a database. Aisling Reidy, Irish Council for Civil Liberties, acknowledges that DNA is a useful tool in helping to solve crime. She argues that setting up a DNA database is creating a pool of ready suspects for every potential future crime.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 24 March 2004. The reporter is Mary Wilson.
