Minister: Gardaí must not access computer system for 'curiosity reasons'

Justice Minister Alan Shatter has asked the Garda Commissioner to address any inappropriate use of the Garda internal computer system.

Minister Shatter says he believes that there are issues concerning the access and use of information on the Pulse System.

He says the data should not be used as some sort of social network to be viewed out of curiosity by members of the force.

Minister Shatter says it is important that the Pulse System is only used for assisting gardaí in carrying out their duties:

"I've raised with the Commissioner there are certain data protection issues that are there to protect the privacy of individuals throughout the country,

"It's a very important right, the right to privacy, and it important the PULSE system is used for the purpose for which is what designed, and I think it is necessary to ensure that it isn't merely accessed for curiosity reasons."