Dick Spring
Question:31 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement regarding the tapping of the car telephone of the leader of the Fine Gael Party; and if he intends to introduce any legislative changes as a result.
Written Answers. - Tapping of Telephones.
Alan Shatter
Question:41 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Justice whether he ordered an investigation into the tapping and recording of phone conversations of Mr. J. Bruton TD as reported (details supplied) on 13 September 1992; the current position with regard to this investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 41 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that arising from the publication of alleged transcripts of telephone conversations between Deputy Bruton and other persons and allegations that a criminal offence or offences had been committed, the Garda Commissioner ordered a full investigation into the matter. In keeping with long-standing practice, I do not intend to comment on the investigation other than to say that it is still in progress.
On the question of legislation, it is important to distinguish between legislation to regulate the authorised interception of communications — which I currently have before this House — and legislation to control unauthorised interceptions. Given the context, I understand Question No. 31 to relate to legislative controls on unauthorised interceptions. Such controls are provided for in the Postal and Telecommunications Services Acts, 1983, which is, of course, a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Communications.