Biometric identification

24/01/2014

The Department of Corrective Services has responded to a number of the Association’s queries in relation to Biometric Identification. The following is a summary of the information provided by Corrective Services.

Prisons operating Biometric ID

• Biometric Identification is currently operating in the following NSW prisons:
• Bathurst
• Cessnock (maximum security section)
• Goulburn
• Grafton
• Junee
• Kariong Juvenile
• Lithgow
• Long Bay Hospital
• Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre
• Mid North Coast
• Parklea
• Silverwater Women'€™s
• South Coast
• Special Purpose Centre Wellington

Health impact and risk assessment of iris scanning

The department uses a camera that captures non-invasive images of the iris using digital camera technology. To illuminate the iris for enhancing the detail of the image, the camera uses a low power Light Emitting Diode (LED) light. A risk assessment of the technology has been performed by the acting senior environmental officers of the Justice Health & Forensic Mental Health Network. This assessment concluded that the scanners are safe, non-invasive and pose no health risks.

Confirmation that algorithms taken from fingerprint scans cannot be compared to an independently obtained algorithm from another fingerprint scan

The department has made a commitment not to grant access to the biometric visitor database to any other agency or body.

Request for an extension of the normal data retention period (6 months), at the request of those practitioners attending prison on an infrequent basis

Biometric algorithms are automatically deleted from the system after a 6 month period if not used.

Provisions for conscientious objectors

The department does not intend to make special provisions for conscientious objectors. The department has referred to the availability of audio-visual links for conscientious objectors.

Penalties that will apply for breach of privacy and/or security safeguards

The privacy of information contained in the biometric identification system is governed by the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1988 and the_ Crimes (Administration of Sentences) Regulation 2008_. In addition, the department has indicated that it would take disciplinary action against any employee improperly disclosing information from the biometric identification system.

Ongoing protocol monitoring and complaints handling

The department has indicated that the biometric identification system is continuously monitored to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the system, and to address any concerns with respect to the system'€™s use.Complaints regarding a suspected breach of privacy should be made in writing to the corrective services commissioner.

Additional information

The department has confirmed its responsibility to facilitate legal visits, and has instructed its staff to give legal practitioners priority for biometric processing. Any questions in relation to biometric identification can be directed to Megan Black on 9229 1739 or at mblack@nswbar.asn.au.

---