Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
645. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth when a person (details supplied) who has requested a copy of the transcript of their evidence to the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes on at least five occasions without acknowledgement will receive same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10387/21]
View answerI am aware that there have been many individuals who gave evidence to the Commission of Investigation, and who appeared before the Confidential Committee to tell their stories, who are now seeking access to these records.
As the Deputy is aware, the Commission of Investigation is independent in the conduct of its investigation. Requests of this nature must be made directly to the Commission. I understand that some individuals have received documentation, however I am not in a position to comment on what has been provided by the Commission.
I am due to receive the archive of records from the Commission by 28th February 2021.
Once the archive of records transfers to my Department under section 4 of the Commission of Investigation (Mother and Baby Homes and certain related Matters) Records, and another matter, Act 2020, my Department will become the data controller in respect of the personal data contained in the records. I am cognisant that, on becoming a data controller later this month, my Department will assume particular responsibilities under GDPR. My Department is actively planning to prepare to receive these records.
A dedicated unit has been established to process applications by individuals to access their personal data which is contained in the archive. I fully intend to respond appropriately to each request in compliance with my obligations as a data controller under GDPR and Data Protection Acts.
