Fiosrú welcomes publication of Annual Report of Independent Examiner of Security Legislation

Fiosrú, the Office of the Police Ombudsman, welcomes today’s publication of the Annual Report of the Independent Examiner of Security Legislation.

The report makes a number of recommendations, both for extending the powers available to agencies working in this area, but also for procedural changes designed to strengthen and extend safeguards for the protection of human rights.

In relation to Fiosrú, the Independent Examiner’s recommendations relate to the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011. He recommends that the government “expressly and directly provide for powers under this Act for the Police Ombudsman in statute”.

Police Ombudsman Emily Logan commented:

“As Ireland’s policing oversight body, Fiosrú has a core role in independently investigating complaints and referrals made to us about gardaí. While the independent investigation of such allegations is of paramount importance, so too is independent oversight of our work in Fiosrú. Fiosrú is subject to strict compliance with the Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011 in regard to all applications for preservation and/or disclosure of evidence as part of investigations. Respecting and protecting human rights is at the core of Fiosrú’s work and independent oversight assures we maintain high professional standards and maintain public trust. Fiosrú welcomes the review visits of the Independent Examiner of Security Legislation and will continue to engage positively with his office.”

ENDS>