Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 7 September 2026
2138. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration if his Department has reviewed whether the current statutory framework permits the timely publication of identifying details of a person where there is an immediate and serious risk to public safety; whether any legislative amendment in this area is under consideration or has been proposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59733/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the management and administration of Garda business under the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024. This includes all operational matters such as criminal investigations and any decision to publicly disclose personal information concerning persons of interest in relation to such investigations, or the operational framework in relation to such disclosures.
The statutory regime governing the processing of personal information, including its disclosure, is principally regulated by the Data Protection Act 2018, which gives effect to the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Law Enforcement Directive (LED). Any such disclosure would have to be necessary and proportionate in balancing its legitimate purpose, such as protecting the public safety, against the rights of the data subject.
