A new bill has been proposed by Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan that would grant Gardaí, the Defence Forces, and the Garda Ombudsman authority to intercept live chats on encrypted platforms, including WhatsApp, iMessage, Instagram, satellite networks, gaming systems, and even in-car technology.
The legislation, known as the Communications (Interception and Lawful Access) Bill, replaces the outdated 1993 Interception of Communications Act and aims to close loopholes used by organised crime and terrorist groups, whose communications are currently beyond legal scrutiny.
Tech giants like Apple, Meta (WhatsApp), Google, and TikTok are expected to challenge the reforms, citing strong end-to-end encryption that safeguards user privacy. Privacy campaigners have also criticised the bill for its lack of transparency and potential erosion of civil liberties.
Minister O’Callaghan argues the changes are necessary to fight organised crime, terrorism, child abuse, and ransomware, calling the overhaul “urgent” to equip state agencies with proper accountability procedures. However, opponents believe it constitutes an invasion of privacy and could set a precedent for surveillance standards.
For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.