GDPR and CCTV access
Deputy McGrath complained that GDPR rules were blocking Garda access to CCTV schemes in several towns. The Minister for Justice rejected the claim of insurmountable obstacles, said he had approved schemes, and ruled out amending legislation.
I am glad that both the Taoiseach and Minister for Justice and Equality are here. The implementation of the general data protection regulation, GDPR, has gone stark raving mad. There are situations in Tipperary, in Clonmel town, Fethard, and many other towns which have funding approved for, or in some cases have, state-of-the-art for CCTV cameras. It is a very effective tool in protecting against crime. Our chief superintendent told us last week that the Garda cannot access this vital piece in the battle against crime and vagabonds of all sorts and against violence on our streets. This is farcical. I want the Taoiseach and Minister for Justice and Equality to amend the legislation immediately to ensure that An Garda Síochána can walk in and access the footage and use it without getting the permission of the county council. The council will be off for ten days at Christmas. It is a joke that GDPR can have such an effect on the security of our State and our people. The Minister is shaking his head but that is what we have been told.
Comment on this
I do not accept what the Deputy has said that there are insurmountable obstacles to the scheme. Of course there are a number of conditions and there are regulations. Only yesterday, I approved some schemes around the country. I am happy to speak to Deputy McGrath to iron out any confusion his group has, but I have no intention-----
Comment on this
It was the chief superintendent.
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-----of introducing amending legislation.