Sinn Féin MLA Linda Dillon has said any investigation into the use of surveillance by the PSNI must explore the full extent of what happened.

The Mid Ulster MLA said:

“The practice of surveillance of journalists by the PSNI raises serious questions about police conduct, and also who else was targeted by these tactics. Were other journalists, NGO’s or lawyers also surveilled?

“Instead of focusing resources on investigating what was revealed in Barry McCaffrey and Trevor Birney’s Loughinisland documentary, the police sought to target these journalists.

“Press freedom is a key pillar of any healthy democracy, and it is vital that we ensure police powers are not used to break the law.

“Any investigation or inquiry into the use of surveillance by the PSNI must be thorough, impartial and transparent.

“It should investigate the extent of unlawful practices, identify those responsible, and recommend measures to prevent such abuses in the future.

“Sinn Féin will continue to seek answers through the Policing Board and directly with the PSNI in relation to the use of unlawful surveillance.”