Consultation on the Review Mechanism for the DNA and Fingerprint Retention framework
Date published:
The Department of Justice (DoJ) is launching a public consultation on proposals for a review mechanism relating to the new DNA and fingerprints retention framework for Northern Ireland.
The Consultation on the Review Mechanism for the DNA and Fingerprint Retention framework (Part 6 of the Police and Criminal Evidence (NI) Order 1989) (PACE NI) will run for a period of 12 weeks.
PACE NI provides the legal basis for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to take, retain and delete DNA and fingerprints.
Justice Minister Naomi Long explained: “Legislative proposals for a new DNA and fingerprint retention framework for Northern Ireland are contained in the Justice Bill, which is currently completing its final stages in the Northern Ireland Assembly.
“The new framework replaces existing indefinite retention arrangements with maximum retention periods (75/50/25 years) based on the nature and seriousness of the offence, the age of the person concerned, criminal history, and whether the person is convicted or not convicted.
“In addition to the introduction of maximum retention periods, the legislation will introduce a review process requiring the PSNI to consider whether there is still a need to retain an individual’s DNA profiles and fingerprints part-way through the maximum retention period.
“This review process will provide an important safeguard within the new framework, helping to ensure that DNA profiles and fingerprints are not kept for longer than necessary.
“I would encourage anyone with an interest in these proposals to take part in the consultation and share their views, which will help inform the final arrangements for the review mechanism."
The consultation document outlining the Department’s proposals for a review mechanism is available to view or download from the consultation link on the DoJ’s website:
The consultation should be completed using the Citizen Space platform at the following link: https://consultations.nidirect.gov.uk/doj/review-mechanism
Responses must be received no later than midnight on 3 February 2027.
Notes to editors:
1. The new retention framework aims to support the prevention and detection of crime, whilst also maintaining compliance with the European Court of Human Rights judgments in the cases of S and Marper v UK and Gaughran v UK.
2. The DoJ has developed suitable review mechanism proposals to ensure that long-term retained DNA profiles and fingerprints are subject to a scheduled review part-way through a maximum retention period.
3. Following appointment, the Northern Ireland Biometrics Commissioner will provide independent oversight of the new DNA and fingerprints retention framework for Northern Ireland, including the operation of the review mechanism.
4. The legislative provisions for the new retention framework contained within the Justice Bill are available at the following link:
5. Media enquiries to the Department of Justice Press Office email press.office@justice-ni.gov.uk or phone: 028 9052 6444.
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