The European Commission has published an evaluation report on the 2006 Data Retention Directive (which requires Member States to ensure that telecommunications operators retain certain categories of data to assist in the investigation of serious crime). This report notes that differences in the transposition of the Directive in each Member State (e.g. in relation to the required data retention period) have created difficulties for telecommunications service providers. The Commission also notes issues in relation to reimbursement of costs, data security safeguards and the impact on small and medium enterprises. In light of this report, and after consulting with interested bodies and organisations, the Commission intends to prepare a proposal to amend the data retention rules. To view an earlier article on the transposition of this Directive in Ireland, please click here.

Contributed by Sarah Lynam.

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