DNA law this year, says Phillips
May 31, 2006
National Security Minister Dr Peter Phillips yesterday listed DNA testing among a raft of legislation the government intends to introduce this year as part of its crime-fighting strategy.
Phillips, making his presentation in the 2006/2007 Sectoral Debate in Parliament, did not elaborate on the DNA issue, saying only that "amendment to appropriate legislation to permit the taking of DNA samples upon arrest for certain scheduled offences" would be among a number of additional legislation brought forward.
The others, he said, were:
. Further amendment to the Firearm Act to introduce a new offence of illegal trading in firearms and ammunition with stiffer penalties;
. A Port Security Bill to consolidate responsibility for security at all ports of entry;
. A review of legislation pertaining to immigration and citizenship;
. New legislation with penalties for trafficking in persons;
. A Bill to establish a National Independent Investigative Authority to strengthen the state's ability to probe corruption, financial crimes and abuse of authority; and
. Amendments to the Evidence Act to permit the presentation of testimony from remote locations, using modern technologies in order to protect witnesses and reduce fear of reprisals.
Phillips also noted that a Joint Select Committee of Parliament was already examining a far-reaching Proceeds of Crime Bill intended to enable the authorities to more easily separate criminals from their ill-gotten wealth.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is a nucleic acid containing specific genetic instructions on biological development of all cellular forms of life, and most viruses. Forensic science allows for the use of DNA in blood, semen, skin or hair left at a crime scene to identify suspects through a process known as genetic fingerprinting or DNA profiling. It is regarded as a reliable technique for identifying criminals, but has earned its fair share of criticism for not always being perfect.
Addressing the amendments to immigration and citizenship laws, Phillips said: "Given the current threats posed by such criminal activities as human smuggling and other forms of trafficking in persons, the trade in illegal narcotics, money laundering and terrorism, we need to ensure that our laws are brought up to date to respond to national objectives and international obligations."...
Author: Balford Henry
Source: Jamaica Observer
