Gardaí Launch Public Consultation on Body-Worn Camera Code of Practice

An Garda Síochána has opened a public consultation on its draft Code of Practice for Body-Worn Cameras, marking the next step towards a national rollout of the recording devices across Ireland. Members of the public have until 13th January 2026 to submit feedback on how the cameras will be used by Gardaí.

The consultation, launched yesterday (Tuesday 9th December 2025), seeks public input on guidelines for body-worn cameras (BWCs), which are video and audio-recording devices that attach to a Garda's clothing. When actively switched on, the devices retain footage until turned off and can assist with preventing, investigating, detecting and prosecuting criminal offences.

Body-worn cameras have been trialled in five Garda stations since 2024 as part of a proof of concept process: Store Street, Pearse Street and Kevin Street in Dublin city centre, Henry Street in Limerick city, and Waterford Garda Station.

A programme team has now been established within An Garda Síochána to accelerate the national rollout, and an updated draft Code of Practice has been developed to support this implementation.

The Code of Practice provides detail on the general operation of BWCs as set out in the Garda Síochána (Recording Devices) Act 2023. It aims to ensure the cameras are used as a tool to protect the rights of both the public and members of An Garda Síochána, while gathering evidence to contribute to crime prevention and investigation.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Paul Cleary, Security, Strategy and Governance, said:

"The public consultation will assist in the commencement of the procurement process, and is the next step in moving towards the national rollout of Body-Worn Cameras. Body-Worn Cameras will assist in ensuring our members are better equipped to carry out their role of keeping people safe. They will assist our personnel in the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of criminal offences and will also be a key piece of equipment for An Garda Síochána into the future. Digital transformation is a priority for An Garda Síochána, with Body-Worn Cameras just one element of our bigger modernisation process."

Engagement with relevant Government departments will take place alongside the public consultation. Exact timelines for the rollout are dependent on financial approval and completion of the procurement process.

In addition to public feedback, the Garda Commissioner is mandated to seek views from the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, the Policing & Community Safety Authority, the Office of the Police Ombudsman (Fiosrú), the Data Protection Commission, and the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission.

A Human Rights Impact Assessment has been conducted, and a Data Protection Impact Assessment will be conducted before the Code of Practice can be considered by the Minister for Justice for publication as a Statutory Instrument.

Feedback submissions must be submitted by 13th January 2026.