The Criminal Justice (Forensic Evidence and DNA Database System Act) 2014 came in to law, in the main, on 20 November 2015 significantly amending earlier legislation.

It changes the landscape for the taking and retention of fingerprints, photographs and samples, and for the requirements for consent in certain circumstances. The provisions apply not only to suspects in detention but also to convicted persons.

The 2014 Act provides for the establishment of a DNA Database System, run by Forensic Science Ireland. This body is of samples from convicted persons, and persons who have reporting requirements under the Sex Offenders Act, and provides for the sharing of information between States.

It also provides for the taking of samples from volunteers for the Database, building DNA profiles of missing persons, and the taking of samples for the purpose of elimination from crime scene investigations.