Garda Síochána (Powers of Surveillance) Bill 2007

Public bill · Private Member · Introduced

The proposal would give the Gardaí clearer powers to carry out covert surveillance, including recording conversations, monitoring places and vehicles, intercepting communications and accessing data equipment, when investigating or preventing serious offences. Usually, approval would be needed from a District Court judge for up to three months, or from a Chief Superintendent for up to seven days; Gardaí could act without prior approval only in exceptional emergencies. The Garda Ombudsman Commission would oversee surveillance and related communications powers, investigate possible wrongdoing and report annually to the Oireachtas. Evidence gathered through surveillance could be used in court, and the Gardaí would become subject to freedom-of-information law after six months.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to provide additional powers for the Garda Síochána with respect to surveillance; and to provide for related matters

Last updated 12 April 2018