Recording of Telephone Conversations made and retained in Garda Stations. Data Protection Acts — Retention of Data.

IF the justice minister had given a more credible and more contrite explanation to the Dáil yesterday morning on his handling of information surrounding telephone recordings in Garda stations, then he might have retrieved some of his lost political capital.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter only became aware of the practice of recording phone calls in and out of Garda stations around the country on Monday evening, his spokesperson has insisted.

It was like a scene straight from a Las Vegas crime caper.

Age Action says elderly people are concerned about their safety following cuts to personal security alarm grants and Garda stations.

THE large-scale closure of small rural Garda stations is expected to be recommended in a new policing plan currently being prepared by the Garda Commissioner, Martin Callinan.

Nanny state says John Mallon

THE actions of selfless young people are to be acknowledged with the launch of the 2011 West Cork Garda Youth Awards.

VETERAN GAA administrator Seamas O’Brien of Waterford says clubs are losing their authority in the association, which he describes as a “very dangerous development”.

FOUR men were being held in two Garda stations in Cork city last night after an alleged aggravated burglary left two students in hospital.

Lower paid civil servants will today stage another round of pickets at Government offices over the controversial pension levy.

Over €3m worth of cocaine has been uncovered as part of an extensive garda operation to tackle organised crime, it was confirmed today.

Caroline O’Doherty

Detailed plans for a small monitoring squad of inspectors to ensure the Garda force reaches international standards have been revealed today.