PSNI applied to access 320 journalists’ phone data

Amnesty International and the National Union of Journalists have called for an inquiry into police surveillance activity.

It follows court allegations that a number of reporters have had their phones monitored unlawfully.

The report stated that on the 10 occasions police sought to identify a journalist’s source, it involved investigations into the “unauthorised disclosure” of PSNI information or documents.

The PSNI said it makes around 8,500 communication data requests every year.

In a statement, the Policing Board said the report did not provide “all the assurance it needs”.

Earlier this week, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher announced that a review of surveillance will be undertaken by a lawyer, Angus McCullough KC.