Kathryn Reilly (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister said no surveillance is being carried out in Ireland, but obviously the issue is that GCHQ is monitoring communications from Ireland. In her reply the Minister stated that the level of interference should be proportionate to the aim sought to be achieved. Given the revelations from Edward Snowdon about surveillance, is it proportionate? She mentioned the principle that the privacy of communications must be respected. Do the revelations show they are being respected?

She mentioned that it is necessary to ensure the information is properly obtained and subject to appropriate safeguards. Does the Minister think that is being done? What is being done to ensure there are safeguards? The English version of the ICCL has said it is willing to go to Strasbourg on this issue in regard to Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. The Minister might not be in a position to respond now, but it is something I would like to tease out.