Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 October 2006
250 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is appropriate for the Gardaí to film or video the movements and statements of Houses of the Oireachtas Members carrying out their duties as public representatives as occurred on 16 October 2006 at the Shell installation at Ballinaboy, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34015/06]
View answerI have been informed by the Garda authorities that, as part of the routine Operational Orders put in place by Garda Management to prevent and detect breaches of criminal law during protests, marches and other events are routinely recorded on video by An Garda Síochána. I am further informed that the video-taping of events is intended to record the movement of all persons, including the members of An Garda Síochána tasked with policing the protests. Such video evidence is securely retained and is available in support/ defence of any allegations made which may be subject of investigation.
