Issue - meetings

The Monitoring Officer presented a report on the outcome of a routine inspection by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office into the Council’s compliance with the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA).

It was heard that the last inspection had taken place in 2016 and the recommendation at that point was for all authorising officers to be regularly trained. This training had been carried out but as yet the Council had not exercised its RIPA powers.

The outcome of this report was a recommendation concerning best practise for online activity. Officers’ personal social media profiles should not be used for investigatory purposes, particularly because this practice puts welfare and safety of those officers at risk. Any such investigations should be carried out in line with relevant Codes of Practice and with properly authorized council profile.

It was noted that the inspection had been useful in terms of reviewing processes and the next one would be scheduled for three years time.

RESOLVED –

1.   That the report be noted.

2.   That the Local Government and Regulatory Law Manager (RIPA Senior Responsible Officer) be authorised to make the relevant changes to Council RIPA policy and procedures.