Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No. 53:

In page 55, line 36, to delete "may" and substitute "shall".

These amendments propose a change in language to use "shall" instead of "may". We are seeking to strengthen safeguards around the use of facial recognition technology in the definition of CCTV. The amendments strengthen the provisions around how the Minister regulates the use of cameras and data from the cameras. The amendment proposes that the Minister "shall" rather than "may" make regulations. As I have outlined in regard to previous amendments, the safeguards around use of surveillance in the Bill are not strong enough. It is not acceptable to create open-ended powers for authorities to use any data-gathering technology they wish and then say the Minister might make some regulations about that. If we are not going to insert safeguards in the primary legislation, we must, at the very least, ensure the Minister is compelled to regulate for safety.