PSNI and Met police unlawfully spied on two journalists, tribunal finds
GuardianDec 18, 2024
UK Court: Northern Ireland Police Unlawfully Spied on Journalists
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Above: (Left to right) Sinn Fein's John Finucane, journalists Trevor Birney and Barry McCaffrey, and Conservative lawmakers Sir David Davis during a press conference in London, UK on Dec. 17, 2024. Image copyright: Lucy North/Contributor/PA Images via Getty Images
The Facts
The UK's Investigatory Powers Tribunal ruled that officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Metropolitan Police illegally surveilled the journalists Barry McCaffrey and Trevor Birney to identify their sources.
The tribunal ordered the PSNI to pay £4K (US$5K) each to McCaffrey and Birney, marking the first time the Tribunal has awarded damages against a police force for unlawful intrusion.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
This ruling is a monumental victory for press freedom, exposing egregious violations by the PSNI against journalists. This case underscores the urgent necessity for safeguards to prevent such abuses, ensuring that journalists can operate without any fear of unlawful surveillance. The PSNI’s actions not only breached human rights but also undermined the integrity of journalism and its role in a free society.
Pro-establishment narrative
Despite past violations, the UK has already implemented measures to promote press freedom. The 2021 National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists introduced Journalist Safety Officers in 22 police forces, enhancing the protection and understanding of journalists' roles. New training for officers on public safety was also issued to safeguard journalists during protests — showing a genuine commitment to protecting the media.
