Opposition deputies have expressed concern about proposed new legislation that would allow police in EU member states to tap phones and access internet records and text messages in their efforts to combat international terrorism and crime.
It is feared the measures could lead to an erosion of civil liberties.
The Minister for Justice Michael McDowell introduced the bill into the Seanad last week where he spoke in Irish.
Labour TD Michael D Higgins criticised the Minister for using Irish in what he said was an abusive way.
He said the translation was poor and he could not understand some of the words used.
