GOVERNMENT OF CANADA INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE DNA DATA BANK

OTTAWA, November 2, 2005 — The Government of Canada today introduced a series of amendments to help implement DNA data bank reforms recently endorsed by Parliament in Bill C-13.

"These measures are consistent with our ongoing work to better protect Canadians, while reflecting the direction already given by Parliament on strengthening our DNA data bank laws," said Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Irwin Cotler. "I strongly urge the rapid passage of this legislation, which would improve the operation of a vital and effective investigative tool."

The proposed amendments, consistent with the intent of Bill C-13 and Canada 's DNA data bank laws, would:

• Clarify definitions and procedures for obtaining a DNA data bank order and for sharing information with international law enforcement partners;
• Help ensure DNA data bank orders can be carried out even when, for logistical reasons, it may not be possible to take the sample at the precise time set out in the order;
• Ensure that the law enforcement community can use information provided by the National DNA Data Bank to investigate all criminal offences ; and,
• Simplify the procedure to destroy samples taken from those convicted of an offence not intended to be included in the DNA data bank.

The legislation would also allow for hearings by video, to reduce the costs and security associated with transporting a greater number of offenders eligible for retroactive sampling, as a result of Bill C-13. Retroactive sampling applies to those convicted of a single murder, sexual offence or manslaughter prior to June 30, 2000, when the legislation that enabled the creation of the National DNA Data Bank came into force.

The proposed reforms are expected to be supported by provincial and territorial officials, as well as those in law enforcement ? all of whom helped identify these issues during consultations on the implementation of Bill C-13.

Neither Bill C-13 nor the legislation introduced today will replace the forthcoming Parliamentary review of Canada 's DNA data bank laws, and any potential additional changes will be considered at that time.

Bill C-13 received Royal Assent in May 2005. The provisions to expand retroactive sampling and destroy inappropriate samples came into force at that time. Other key provisions, which ensure DNA samples can be collected from more convicted offenders, have yet to take effect. The technical amendments introduced today should be made prior to the coming into force of these unproclaimed provisions in Bill C-13, in order to increase the data bank's efficiency and reduce costs.

The National DNA Data Bank is a powerful crime-solving tool for law enforcement officials nationwide. It has been instrumental in focusing leads, eliminating suspects and exonerating the innocent. To learn more about it, visit www.nddb-bndg.org

An online version of the legislation will be available at www.parl.gc.ca .

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Ref. :

Marc Chalifoux
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice
(613) 992-4621

Media Relations
Department of Justice Canada
(613) 957-4207

Alex Swann
Director of Communications
Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness
(613) 991-2863

Media Relations
Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada
(613) 991-0657

Media Relations
RCMP
(613) 993-2999