Comments on: Intercepting communications and our “right” to privacy

By: Carlton Samuels

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 15:35:17 +0000

As a general rule, my reflexive position is that one is born with a right to privacy. With that said and to the extent there will be any alteration to this position either by official or unofficial means, the evidence for a compelling case usually must be adduced from surveillance. And likely a crude – if not rude! – intrusion on one’s privacy in the first place! [It’s a lifetime since the Stimson declaration “Gentlemen don’t read other gentlemen’s mail”!]

The argument to support intrusion has always been it must be done to preserve life, property and the public peace. And the weight of that counterargument to the absolute right to privacy is almost impossible to overcome. However, there are enough instances in the record where the arguments are not only false but deliberately concocted to advance other agendas. I am conflicted with respect to whether there could ever be a system implemented that would give comfort that abuse is impossible.

I might not be able to embrace it without holding my nose. But the compelling need for verification on any system set up to suspend one’s right to privacy even in dire circumstances, is established. This is where Access to Information is critical. For in the end, light tends to be the best disinfectant.

]]>

By: mmarius

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 13:04:58 +0000

In reply to Marissa Kavita Edwards.

Thanks for the update, Marissa.

Question though, are you are aware, or do you have a sense, of how effective T&T’s Interception of Communications Act has been so far?

Also, what are your thoughts regarding privavcy and interception of messages/communication by law enforcement? Can there be a balance?

Michele

]]>

By: Marissa Kavita Edwards

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 12:41:38 +0000

Good day!

I’d like to commend you on the wonderful job so far with the blog, and this article was indeed interesting as privacy is such an important issue with respect to communications and the Consumer’s Right to Privacy.

However, I would like to point out that while the information in the table sourced from HIPCAR was relevant in 2010 , it is now outdated with repect to Trinidad and Tobago since the recent passage of our Interception of Communications Act, despite the fact that Trinidad and Tobago is still not entirely compliant with HIPCAR’s recommended Policy Framework.

Keep up the good work!

Marissa Edwards

]]>