A PUBLIC CONSULTATION process has been launched to gauge the public’s view on data-sharing between public service bodies.

It follows the publication of a policy and consultation paper, which will ultimately lead to the Data-Sharing and Governance Bill.

A number of public bodies already share information in certain circumstances.

For example, the Department of Social Protection, the Department of Education, and the Revenue Commissions all receive data from SUSI to ‘streamline the student grant application process’.

The General Register Office works with the Department of Social Protection for the processing of new Child Benefit claims.

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin said that data-sharing is key “to the provision of quality public services”.

“I am initiating this public consultative process to help ensure that the proposed data sharing legislation meets the ambitious objectives Government have set for it,” he said, “while ensuring that information is shared securely and proportionately with proper regard to data protection principles and privacy.”

Further details are available on the Department’s website.

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