Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
25. Deputy James Geoghegan asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration when the finalised code of practice on public CCTV, currently being developed by An Garda Síochána, will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35127/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraCommunity safety is a top priority for my Department and everyone has the right to be safe and to feel safe in their communities. CCTV in public places has a role in giving people a greater sense of security. It is also effective in deterring criminal activity and antisocial behaviour and in assisting with the investigation of crime.
The Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023 provides for a new regime for the authorisation and operation of CCTV schemes. Part 5 of that Act, when commenced, will introduce these new arrangements.
Part 8 of the Act stipulates the requirement for a new Code of Practice on Public Closed Circuit Television (CCTV).
The aim of the Code of Practice is to provide further detail on the general operation of Public CCTV.
It also aims to ensure Public CCTV is used only for policing purposes and the prevention, investigation, detection and prosecution of criminal offences.
An Garda Síochána launched a public consultation for a draft Code of Practice on Public Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) on the 27 January 2026.
In addition to seeking the views of the public, the Garda Commissioner, as required by the Act, formally sought input from me, as Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, the Policing & Community Safety Authority, Fiosrú, the Data Protection Commission, and the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. This consultation was also extended to the Local Government Management Agency.
The Public and Statutory consultations are now completed, and the code is finalised. The code will not commence until after the enactment of the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) (Amendment) Bill 2025, which will amend the transitional arrangements for existing CCTV applications, submitted but not yet approved under the existing regime. Upon enactment of the Bill, An Garda Síochána will forward the Code of Practice to me for formal commencement, via Ministerial order.
