Debate contribution: PSNI: Use of Facial Recognition Technology

Debate contribution by Mr Gerry Carroll on 9 March 2026.

MLA: Mr Gerry Carroll
Party at the time: People Before Profit Alliance
Date: 9 March 2026
Type: Debate contribution
Business: Oral Answers to Questions
Heading: PSNI: Use of Facial Recognition Technology
Assembly identifier: Official Report component 5453315

Text

Thanks, Minister. My understanding is that the PSNI holds images of people who have never been charged with or convicted of anything, which is terrifying. You will know that the PSNI is considering introducing live facial recognition. I am concerned, as are many human rights organisations, about the chilling effect that that will have on people who are organising and campaigning in a peaceful way. Do you share those concerns?

70 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Part of an exchange

This follow-up belongs to: Topical question AQT 2136/22-27.

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