Thank you.
Welcome.
We are obviously in favour of the spirit of the bill, but the issue at hand is how far should we go. We agree that the taking of DNA samples and the subsequent analysis of these samples may assist with investigations and even, in some cases, protect the wrongfully accused.
Representatives from the Canadian Bar Association will not be testifying, but they did submit a brief. The Bar is always very enlightening to parliamentarians sitting on this committee. This brief cautions us against adding conspiracy, found in paragraph 8(5)(e) of the bill. Included in 30 or so offences that have been added, conspiracy can lead to the taking of DNA samples without an individual having perpetrated a planned act.
In some respects, are we going a bit too far by expanding the list of designated offences?
That is my first question; I will have two others. I would imagine that this question is more for Mr. Bird than the others.