Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I emphasise for the Deputy that the characterisation of Operation Mizen as a surveillance operation is wrong. It was set up by the Garda to support national co-ordination of its management of water protests from a public order perspective. While there have been many lawful and peaceful protests against water charges, there have also been some very unfortunate examples of unacceptable and violent protests, including outside the gates of this House. The Garda must take whatever appropriate measures it considers necessary to facilitate those who want to protest peacefully and to ensure public safety where necessary.

The Garda Commissioner has made it clear to me that no public representative or member of the public is subject to technical or lawful interception by Operation Mizen. I am sure the Deputy would agree with me that it is essential that people obey the law and demonstrate peacefully, whatever the issue at hand. There is no question but that the right to protest is fundamental in any democracy and we must protect and facilitate it. However, that right must be exercised peacefully. The function of the Garda in respect of public protests and demonstrations is to facilitate them taking place in a peaceful and orderly way, without undue disruption to the daily life and business of others.

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