Bunting to open parliamentary debate on DNA bill today

National Security Minister, Peter Bunting, is expected to open the debate on the proposed DNA legislation in the House of Representatives, today.

Bunting had tabled the much-talked about bill in the House on April 29.

The bill proposes to, among other things, allow for the establishment and operation of a national DNA register.

It also sets out a framework for the taking of DNA samples from persons for forensic investigations and human identification.

However, since the tabling, some members of the legal fraternity have criticised it, arguing that it could breach the Constitution.

They point particularly to the requirement under the proposed law for the taking of DNA samples from persons in detention.

However, Speaking earlier this month on Power 106 FM, the National Security Minister said great effort has been taken to ensure the proposed law does not violate the Constitution.

Bunting has also dismissed a call from the Opposition for the bill to go before a joint parliamentary committee.

He says that would further delay the implementation of the bill.