Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

This section deals with the photographing of arrested persons which appears to be a good idea. I note that any such photographs are to be confined to the proceedings for which a person was arrested. What is the reason for this restriction? I presume the Garda builds up a file of photographs of suspects or persons who have been involved in crime and that should be part of its armoury for use in conducting investigations. There is also provision for the destruction of such photographs. In circumstances where a successful prosecution is mounted on the basis of a case for which a person was arrested, why would such photographs not be retained for the future, or will they be retained? The Minister might clarify that aspect.