Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) (Amendment) Bill 2025

Public bill · Government · Presented

The measure would let Gardaí use biometric analysis on recordings, images and similar material to help identify people, but only in limited cases such as serious offences, missing persons cases, or protecting State security. It would also require detailed rules on how the technology is used, including checks on privacy and human-rights impacts, consultation with oversight bodies, approval by the Oireachtas, and annual reporting by a High Court judge. That matters because it gives Gardaí a new investigative tool while trying to put strong controls around a powerful and sensitive technology.

Formal long title

Bill entitled an Act to provide for the carrying out of biometric analysis by members of Garda personnel in certain circumstances; to provide for the preparation of codes of practice in relation to the carrying out of such biometric analysis and, for those and other purposes, to amend the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023; and to provide for related matters.