DNA samples are generally matched using a minimum of 6 genetic markers that are present in both samples. One sample for example may be taken from crime scene evidence and matched to samples in a data base. Now, a team of scientists has been working on a mathematical algorithm that can match DNA with just half the makers. So, three instead of six. That means it can match partial or degraded DNA samples. Dr Francois-Xavier Laurent, from the Interpol DNA unit in France spoke to Lisa Owen.

Nearly nine-thousand public servants are in line to lose their jobs over the next three years - as a result of cuts to the public service in the coming Budget. The seismic shake-up - outlined in a pre-Budget speech today - will come as a result of merging a suite of ministries - yet to be determined - with the goal of saving an average 600 million dollars a year. But the coalition parties aren't all aligned. Craig McCulloch reports.

All the top stories and other headlines from the day

The worst piece of legislation I've ever seen. That's an advocate's verdict on legislation supposed to clarify the purpose of Disability Support Services. The bill introduced yesterday makes it clear the crown is the not the employer of family carers. It follows a Supreme Court ruling last year, that two parents who care full-time for their disabled children should be considered government employees. Disability advocate Jane Carrigan spoke to Lisa Owen.

After several false starts, The Enhanced Games, a sporting event that allows athletes to dope, will get under way in Las Vegas. But days out from the start of competition, little is known about the details of the event and the athletes taking part. Sports editor Dana Johannsen spoke to Lisa Owen.

A property investment expert says councils could crack down on short term holiday rentals right now if they wanted to and there's no need for a bed register. Checkpoint spoke to a Christchurch councillor who is campaigning for a nations wide bed register; to make it easier to track Airbnb's and other short-term rentals. The register would force platforms to share data, like addresses and the number of nights it's being rented. Economist Ed McKnight from property investment company Opes Partners spoke to Lisa Owen.

A shooting at San Diego's largest mosque has left 5 people dead. Three victims, including a security guard, were shot and killed when two teenage shooters opened fire on the mosque. Both suspects were found dead in a car nearby soon after the incident. The shooting is being investigated as a hate crime. US correspondent Todd Zwillich spoke to Lisa Owen.

More than 8,500 public service jobs are being axed as part of a government overhaul. AI and digital technology are a big part of the plan. The cuts are forecast to save $2.4 billion dollars over four years. Andrew Lensen, senior lecturer in AI at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington spoke to Lisa Owen.

The little show that can! Wallace Chapman and Jesse Mulligan take on the big, and not so big issues as they preview tonight's edition of The Panel.

The little show that can! Wallace Chapman and Jesse Mulligan take on the big, and not so big issues as they preview tonight's edition of The Panel.