Question NW3095 to the Minister of Police
30 October 2017 - NW3095
Cassim, Mr Y to ask the Minister of Police
(1) What are the relevant details of the shortage of (a) DNA primer kits, (b) sample holders, (c) chemicals and (d) other consumables necessary for DNA analysis at each forensic science laboratory administered by his department; (2) what number of Genetic Sample Processing System (GSPS) machines does his department own; (3) whether each GSPS machine is being utilised at full capacity; if not, why not; if so, what number of samples on average are processed in a week?
Reply:
(1)(a)(b)(c)(d)
|
a |
There is no shortage of DNA reagent kits, for analysing DNA samples. However, there is currently a shortage of DNA buccal sample collection kits, which are used to collect buccal samples from persons arrested and charged for schedule eight offences, in accordance with the DNA Act. |
|
b |
There are no shortages of sample holders. |
|
c |
There are no shortages of chemicals. |
|
d |
There are no shortages of other consumables, necessary for DNA analysis. |
(2) and (3) The Forensic Science Laboratory had one functional Genetic Sample Processing System (GSPS), which was installed in 2006, for DNA analysis in the Biology Section, Arcadia. The GSPS reached the end of its life cycle, several years ago and is no longer utilised. The GSPS equipment was decommissioned, due to old technology and unavailability of maintenance/service by service providers. The GSPS has been replaced with semi-automated DNA analysis equipment, to analyse crime scene and buccal samples. The semi-automated equipment is proving to be very effective and is significantly more cost effective than the GSPS.