New data rules under microscope at Martello
DEPUTY Stephen Donnelly and Fianna Fáil rep James Doyle hosted an information evening for small businesses last week at the Martello.
The event centred around the changes to regulations for the GDPR which will come into force on May 25. From this date, businesses across Ireland and Europe will have to strengthen the protections they use to both store and process the information that customers, staff and users supply.
‘ The GDPR is something that will affect every business in Wicklow in some way,’ said Mr Doyle. ‘ This time is now to get your business house in order. The enhanced rights and protections it gives customers mean that businesses need to do their part. That means ensuring that they only collect data which is needed, ensure that people are aware of why they are being contacted by a business, and having the systems in place to handle what’s called a data access request. It was clear from the meeting that the majority of businesses who attended have started to prepare for the GDPR,’ said Mr Doyle.
‘ That’s a positive thing. But further work is needed. I would encourage anyone who did not have the opportunity to make it down tonight to make themselves aware of the changes that are coming, and the 12 steps that they can take to ensure they are ready. The same goes for clubs, charities and voluntary groups - if you hold or use data on members there’s some simple precautions you need to take. If anyone has further questions or concerns do get in touch with myself or the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.’
Deputy Donnelly said that the GDPR is a positive step in the right direction.
‘But awareness of the responsibilities it brings with it is really important,’ he said.
‘ The power of the information that companies hold is coming more and more to the fore in Ireland. The capacity of social media platforms to target specific messages to individuals is growing,’ said Deputy Donnelly.
‘ The potential influence of private firms on events such as national elections and indeed Brexit are a stark reminder that the services we use every day are a tool, and that the connectivity they provide also brings challenges.’