Law to let State read encrypted dialogue

The Department of Justice intends to oblige internet corporations to provide access to encrypted communications or explain why they cannot, under a shake-up of Ireland’s interception laws.

In a nuanced approach, the department said it was “open to a dialogue” with industry on the issue and accepted that there was “much to learn learn from industry on how best this matter can be dealt with”.

A department policy document said forthcoming amendments intend to “place a responsibility on industry to co-operate” with the legislation “or provide an explanation as to why this cannot be so”.