(1) Where a request is made in connection with a criminal investigation in the State or a designated state, any person who, knowing or suspecting that the investigation is taking place, makes any disclosure which is likely to prejudice the investigation is guilty of an offence.

(2) A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable -

(a) on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding €5,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or both, or

(b) on conviction on indictment, to a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 5 years or both.

(3) In proceedings for an offence under this section it is a defence to prove that the defendant -

(a) did not know or suspect that the disclosure to which the proceedings relate was likely to prejudice the investigation concerned, or

(b) had lawful authority or reasonable excuse for making the disclosure.