I'm on the
ISPAI data retention working group
The directive relates primarily to emails (other data as well, but I'm trying to keep it simple)
The directive hasn't been fully implemented here yet, but will be at some point.
The time of receipt etc., is meant to be retained, but the actual contents of the mail aren't ... so the subject line for example would be outside the scope of the directive..
US law is much worse on many levels, as they can seize servers etc., without warning under the Patriot act and other laws..