Justice Committee discuss ‘Civil Liberties during the Covid-19 Pandemic’ with stakeholders

Participants include Professor Pete Lunn, Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI); and representatives from the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC); the Irish Council for Civil Liberties; the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI); and the Office of the Garda Commissioner.

Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy James Lawless said: “The Committee is eager to have a discussion with key stakeholders on the topic of civil liberties during Covid-19. The Government had to make rapid sweeping changes to help control the spread and combat the ensuing health crisis of the Covid-19 pandemic. We hope to hear some insight and findings about these changes that may have affected the civil liberties of people during the pandemic in Ireland. And to take those learnings on board when we are faced with similar in the future.”

The Cathaoirleach added: “The Committee look forward to a robust discussion and a chance to get a deeper understanding from the organisations during the debate, which will better equip us when making forthcoming decisions again.”

The Joint Committee on Justice has 14 Members, nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad.

You can view the meeting in Committee Room 1 on the Oireachtas website. More information can be found on the dedicated Committee Webpage. Committee proceedings can also be viewed on the Houses of the Oireachtas Smartphone App, available for Apple and Android devices.