Data sharing legislation enacted

Data sharing legislation enacted

The remaining sections of the Data Sharing and Governance Act 2019 have been enacted.

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Michael McGrath and minister of state Ossian Smyth have announced that the remaining sections of the Act have been commenced, with the exception of subsections (2) and (3) of section 6.

This commencement allows for establishment of the Data Governance Board and the introduction of a comprehensive new Data Sharing and Governance Framework for the Public Service. This ministers say this represents a significant development in the government’s drive to provide transparency on the efficient use of citizen data to deliver public services.

Mr McGrath said: “This enabling piece of legislation will allow us to be more progressive in how we use the data that we have. It will deliver more positive outcomes for our public services, our businesses and our citizens; whilst allowing us to remain fully aligned to GDPR and protection of data privacy. Data sharing will bring significant benefits in the efficient delivery of public services.

“The Data Governance Board will ensure that citizens’ data is managed in a way that assures individuals that their personal data is treated with respect, only shared where necessary and in accordance with law.”

Ms Smyth added: “Effective and efficient management of data is vitally important in the provision of quality Government Services and the development of meaningful evidence based policies. We now have the opportunity to shape the landscape of how personal data is shared across all Public Service Bodies.

“This will ultimately improve the gap between policy making and operational delivery. It gives us the opportunity to use citizens’ data to be better at planning new services, creating new policies and responding more quickly to emerging trends.”

The Order, which had a commencement date of 7 July, also sets out 31 March 2022 for the remaining sections to be enacted.

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