Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I appreciate that. It is vital that the Garda Síochána has access, when appropriate, to carry out its work. The other aspect of this that must be examined is social media and what happens there. I know there is some preparation to examine the possibility of hate crime, hate speech and so forth. Again, we have to be very careful about this because people have a right to freedom of speech. We certainly must be very cautious about this and I understand that.

To return to the issue of data retention and being able to access data, particularly in cases of serious crime, it is vital that we have the legislative underpinning to ensure it is there and that it can happen, when appropriate. Equally, people must not feel that they are in some way under surveillance for no reason. That is the balance that must be struck. When the Supreme Court brings forward its judgment, it is important that we move into a position where we can strike that balance and come to a conclusion on this matter.

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