Inviolability of Dwelling

Information

The Constitution (Bunreacht na hÉireann) declares that the dwelling of a citizen in Ireland is inviolable and shall not be entered forcibly except in accordance with the law. This means that no one, including the Gardai (Irish police force), may enter the place where you live without a warrant or other legal authority to enter.

If you are arrested as a result of an unlawful entry into your home, your arrest is illegal. Evidence obtained as a result of an unlawful entry onto your dwelling is inadmissible in court.

Your right to inviolability of dwelling is set down in Article 40.5 of the Constitution.

You can view the full text of the Irish Constitution here.

Page updated: 7 April 2009

Categories

Social Welfare

Employment

Education and Training

Travel and Recreation

Housing

Moving Country

Money and Tax

Family and Relationships

Health

Justice

Consumer Affairs

Death and Bereavement

Government in Ireland

Environment

Find a Citizens Information Centre

Accessibility

Privacy

Contact us

Disclaimer

Re-use of Public Sector Information