asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the rapid growth of computer data banks in the fields of census information, data available to the Revenue Commissioners, the introduction of such systems by regional health boards, the compilation of computer credit ratings, bank accounts and mailing lists, he is prepared to set up an interDepartmental committee or public commission to ensure the right of the individual to the knowledge that his record has been entered into a public or private computer system, to be shown, on request, a print-out of his personal record and receive an explanation of all codes used therein, the right of appeal against entries or omissions within such records, the right to the knowledge of who has access to such records and the right of the public authorities in the case of individual complaints to access to investigate suspected malpractices; and if there is any Government policy in this matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Computer Data Policy.
I do not consider that the computer systems which have been developed in our public service present a threat to the privacy of the individual. Apart from some specialised scientific computing, the computer systems which have been installed in the Civil Service, for instance, have replaced routine clerical procedures. No attempt has been made to build up data banks on people, or to link, through computers, information which has traditionally been held in manual files in more than one Department. Legislation concerning the divulging of information applies to the staff of the Revenue Commissioners and the Central Statistics Office.
I have recently established within my Department a standing group which will advise on national policy issues regarding overall computer development within the country, including matters of the type referred to in the question. Future advances in computer systems may create a situation where the question of introducing machinery to protect the privacy of the individual may need to be considered. I am satisfied that this stage has not so far been reached.
Is the Minister aware that the availability of a computerised mental health register is an infringement of a person's rights?
I am not aware that it is an infringement of people's rights.
Would the Minister not consider that information stored in a computer in respect of a person's mental health record and available to non-medical personnel is an infringement of a person's rights?
It is not an infringement.
I am addressing the Minister for Finance.
The Minister for Finance has said already that he is not aware of any infringement.
The fact that the information is available to non-medical personnel is, in itself, an infringement of a person's rights.
That does not necessarily follow.
The remaining questions will appear on tomorrow's Order Paper.