Communications (Retention of Data) Act 2011

Duties of designated judge in relation to this Act.

12.— (1) In addition to the duties assigned under section 8 of the Act of 1993, the designated judge shall—

(a) keep the operation of the provisions of this Act under review,

(b) ascertain whether the Garda Síochána, the Permanent Defence Force and the Revenue Commissioners are complying with its provisions, and

(c) include, in the report to the Taoiseach under section 8(2) of the Act of 1993, such matters relating to this Act that the designated judge considers appropriate.

(2) For the purpose of carrying out the duties assigned under this section, the designated judge—

(a) has the power to investigate any case in which a disclosure request is made, and

(b) may access and inspect any official documents or records relating to the request.

(3) Any person who was concerned in, or has information relevant to, the preparation or making of a disclosure request shall give the designated judge, on his or her request, such information relating to the request as is in the person’s possession.

(4) The designated judge may, if he or she considers it desirable to do so, communicate with the Taoiseach or the Minister concerning disclosure requests and with the Data Protection Commissioner in connection with the Commissioner’s functions under the DataProtection Acts 1988 and 2003.