Third-party CCTV is in widespread use across Ireland and there is an increased operational demand to allow An Garda Síochána access these third-party CCTV systems to enable them to tackle a range of offences, including drug-related crimes, vehicle and property crimes and public-order offences.

Pursuant to the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023 a new code of practice is required in order to do so and it is on this proposed code of practice that the views of the public are now sought.

A third-party CCTV feed is defined as one where the data controller is not An Garda Síochána. In general, a superior officer will make an application to the District Court in accordance with section 40 (1) of the Act for processing of such third party CCTV where such processing is necessary for the prevention, investigation, detection or prosecution of criminal offences, safeguarding against, and the prevention of, threats to public security, including securing public safety and public order, or the protection of the security of the State. However, in “cases of urgency” a member of Garda personnel may process a third-party CCTV feed without a section 40 authorisation.

The consultation closes on 14 September.