Nora Owen
Ceist:65 Mrs. Owen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether there is a need for privacy legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18243/97]
Written Answers. - Privacy Legislation.
The Deputy will be aware that the courts have already recognised the individual's right to privacy under the Constitution. As to whether there is a need for privacy legislation in the civil sphere, consideration of this matter will be greatly helped by the ongoing work of the Law Reform Commission. In its consultation paper "Privacy: Surveillance and the Interception of Communications", the commission proposes that certain new torts together with various defences, should be created by statute.
The commission also proposes the creation of certain new offences.
When the final report becomes available, recommendations relevant to these issues will be examined carefully, and I do not wish to prejudge the outcome of that examination now.