Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Nov 1995

Vol. 457 No. 7

Written Answers. - Data Protection Act.

Michael Bell

Question:

311 Mr. Bell asked the Minister for Defence, regarding the Data Protection Act, 1988, the regulations if any, which are in force which prohibit access to personal data kept by persons or bodies with statutory functions; if he will give details of SOP restricted and when he last reviewed the necessity for this restriction; whether he has satisfied himself that members of the Defence Forces, both permanent and reserve, are acquainted with their right of access to material kept in electronic form; the number of units and sub-units of the Defence forces both reserve and regular, which have computers, whether purchased directly or otherwise with State funds; whether he has further satisfied himself that data controllers are conscious of their obligations under the Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16253/95]

Minister for Defence (Mr. Barrett):

The provisions of the Data Protection Act, 1988, apply to members of the Defence Forces and the Adjutant General is the Data Controller for the Defence Forces for the purposes of the Act. Since 1989 a number of instructions and guidance documents have been issued by the military authorities to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Act. The matter is also dealt with by means of seminars, conferences and courses.

It has not been possible in the time available to compile detailed information in relation to units and sub-units which have computers. However, over 1,200 computers have been purchased for use within the Defence Forces.

It is not understood what is meant by the term "SOP restricted" in the Deputy's question.