Summary of the Evaluation of the Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program
About the program
The Biology Casework Analysis Contribution Program (BCACP) provides financial contributions to the provincial forensic DNA laboratories in Ontario and Quebec in order to help populate the Crime Scene Index of the National DNA Data Bank (NDDB). The Royal Canadian Mounted Police has the only other laboratory authorized to provide DNA profiles to the NDDB.
What we examined
The purpose of the evaluation was to assess the relevance, efficiency, and effectiveness (performance) of the BCACP. The evaluation covered the period from 2020-2021 to 2024-2025 and was conducted in accordance with the Treasury Board Policy on Results and the Directive on Results. This evaluation is required under section 42.1 of the Financial Administration Act.
Evaluation findings
- The increase in BCACP funding during the evaluation timeframe increased the capacity of the laboratories to hire additional staff, which has led to an increase in the number of DNA samples accepted and profiles uploaded to the NDDB
- The Canadian criminal justice system generally has timely and effective access to the DNA analysis work of the funded laboratories and added to the NDDB, as seen by an increase in hits
- While the BCACP-funded laboratories have shown the ability to implement new technology and analysis methods, they also work collectively with the RCMP lab to coordinate activities and share best practices
- Public Safety Canada provides between 46% and 49% of the ongoing funding for the laboratories. Challenges with the funding model were identified
- There is a continued need for the services provided by the laboratories receiving BCACP funding
Recommendation
1. Reexamine the funding model for the BCACP to determine the appropriate funding mechanism prior to the end of the existing agreements in March 2027.
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