Ms Geraldine Moore:

We have not provided for a separate regime for journalists. The Act applies to everyone, to all citizens. Head 8, which is probably one of the most important heads, sets out what has to be considered by a member of An Garda Síochána or the other State agencies in making an application for an authorisation. They have to be satisfied that the data would relate to a person who is suspected of having committed a serious offence or would have implications for State security. The provisions of head 8 apply equally to journalists.