The Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Bill 2022, which justice minister Simon Harris is introducing to the Dáil today, will allow for recording from body-worn cameras, helicopters, aircraft, Garda dogs, drones, mobile devices and tablets.

The bill implements a number of recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland, which was published in 2019, and is identified as a priority action in Justice Plan 2022. 

Its provisions include an extension to the powers governing Garda use of CCTV and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology, including new powers for gardaí to access third-party CCTV on a live-feed basis, subject to strict guidelines and oversight.

It will also place a statutory obligation on the Garda Commissioner to prepare codes of practice, which will be submitted to the minister of justice for approval, regarding the operation of recording devices and CCTV.

The Department of Justice said it engaged extensively with An Garda Síochána, Garda oversight bodies and strategic partners during the preparation of the bill, as well as the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission and the Irish Council for Civil Liberties.

Mr Harris said: “I am confident that body worn cameras will play an important role in improving Garda front-line capabilities and in ensuring the accurate recording of incidents.

“Garda use of this technology will be primarily for the investigation, detection, prevention and prosecution of criminal offences, the safeguarding against and the prevention of threats to public safety and public order, and in matters relating to the security of the State.”

Under the bill, body-worn cameras must be visible on the clothing of the Garda member and have a light showing when they are recording. The bill also contains a broad definition of recording device to ensure the legislation is future-proofed.

The bill will regulate the use of recording devices in public spaces; where An Garda Síochána have a power of entry authorised by law; and in places where they have implied or express permission to be. Provision will also be made for recording to be carried out from Garda helicopters, fixed wing aircraft and drones.