Mr. Justin Kelly:

I will take the second part of the question first. On location data, every year we make a substantial number of applications for this type of data. It is commonly known as cell site analysis. As I said, this could be in cases such as tiger kidnappings, child abductions and missing persons. We will continue to be able to do that. Section 6(1)(b) includes provisions relating to protecting the life or personal safety of a person and in respect of missing persons cases. We will be able to continue to do that.

Moving to the Deputy’s reference to inspectors, as was rightly pointed out, that is the minimum rank. From a practical point of view, it is envisaged that the Garda would probably centralise this aspect. Designated inspectors would be undertaking this activity or it would be centralised at Garda headquarters. This would be similar to what we do in the context of various other types of applications. Therefore, that would be a protection that would be in place in this regard. We have not finalised the technical details of how we will undertake this, but there will be protections in this context. I hope this is useful to the Deputy.