An independent review has been announced by PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher following allegations of police surveillance on journalists. The review, led by senior barrister Angus McCullough KC, was prompted by concerns raised during an Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT) hearing in London, involving investigative reporters Barry McCaffrey and Trevor Birney.
The IPT hearing revealed potential surveillance of journalists deemed “troublemakers,” with their phone data scrutinized every six months. Chief Constable Boutcher emphasized the review would examine the PSNI's surveillance practices, clarifying that previously misunderstood documents did not pertain to these journalists.
Supporting the review, a group of experts includes former police ombudsman Baroness Nuala O’Loan, Patrick Corrigan of Amnesty International, and Daniel Holder of the Committee on the Administration of Justice.
Despite welcoming the review, McCaffrey, Birney, and Corrigan insist on a full public inquiry to fully disclose the extent of any unlawful surveillance.