Question
171. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if Irish law requires telecommunications companies to establish the capability to intercept messages transmitted by the company; if so, the legal basis on which such an obligation is imposed; if the costs of such a capability are reimbursed by the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25969/16]
Answer
Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Frances Fitzgerald): Telecommunications services providers are required to maintain a capacity to intercept telecommunications messages in accordance with the provisions of section 110 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983, as amended. The State does not reimburse the costs associated with this.