By M10News Political Correspondent
The Irish government has unveiled a sweeping new surveillance bill that would give state agencies the power to lawfully intercept private messages sent over encrypted platforms such as WhatsApp, iMessage, Instagram, and even in-car systems and gaming networks.
Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan introduced the Communications (Interception and Lawful Access) Bill, which seeks to modernise Ireland’s approach to digital surveillance by replacing the outdated 1993 Interception of Communications Act.
The proposal is being framed as an urgent measure to close what the minister called “significant loopholes” being exploited by organised criminals, terrorists, and other high-risk groups.
If passed, the bill would allow Gardaí, the Defence Forces, and the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) to intercept live communications in real time, including those protected by end-to-end encryption.
The legislation comes amid growing concern that encrypted messaging apps are being used to coordinate criminal activity that remains invisible to law enforcement.
O’Callaghan stressed the need for stronger tools to combat child sexual exploitation, terror threats, and ransomware attacks, adding that new powers would include oversight mechanisms to prevent abuse.
However, privacy advocates and tech companies have swiftly criticised the bill.
Industry giants such as Apple, Meta (which owns WhatsApp and Instagram), Google, and TikTok are expected to resist the move, arguing it compromises user security by weakening encryption protections.
Civil liberties groups say the bill lacks transparency and opens the door to mass surveillance without sufficient public debate or safeguards. Critics fear it could set a dangerous precedent for undermining encrypted communications worldwide.
“There’s a risk this legislation prioritises surveillance over rights,” said one privacy watchdog, adding that encryption is essential for journalists, whistleblowers, and ordinary citizens alike.
Minister O’Callaghan acknowledged these concerns but insisted that modern technologies must not become “safe havens” for criminal activity.
He said the reforms will be subject to judicial authorisation and reviewed by an independent commissioner.
The bill is expected to generate heated debate in the Oireachtas in the coming months, as Ireland joins a growing list of governments around the world seeking greater access to encrypted digital communications.
