The Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) annual report for 2022 shows a 15 per cent increase in the total number of profiles on the DNA database system to over 67,000 at the end of 2022 — which has since risen to over 73,000.

The report also shows that over 76,500 samples have been destroyed in compliance with legislation, including over 12,000 samples in 2022, and over 35,500 profiles removed, including over 6,400 in 2022.

Justice minister Helen McEntee said: “I am glad to note the international reach that the DNA database had in 2022. At the end of 2022, FSI was exchanging DNA data with 11 other countries under the Prüm Treaty.”

She added: “In line with legislative requirements, 12,159 DNA samples taken from individuals for the purposes of generating a DNA profile were destroyed in 2022. 6,406 profiles were removed from the national DNA database in 2022.

“This is an indication that FSI is adhering to the important safeguards in place to protect the integrity of the DNA database and the persons whose DNA data is recorded on it.”