asked the Minister for Communications his views on whether the present legislation relating to postal and telecommunications services is adequate in the protection it gives consumers from having their mail and telecommunications messages intercepted; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Postal-Telecommunications Services.
8.
Sections 84 and 98 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983, expressly prohibit the opening of postal packets and the interception of telecommunications messages save in clearly specified instances and I am satisfied about the adequacy of the postal and telecommunications legislation in this regard.
Unlawful interception is an offence punishable on summary conviction by a fine of up to £800, by imprisonment for up to 12 months or by both, and on conviction on indictment by a fine of up to £50,000, by imprisonment for up to five years or by both.