Ireland’s Data Protection Commission to be expanded
TThe Data Protection Commission (DPC) in Ireland is set to undergo significant changes with the appointment of two additional commissioners. Current Commissioner Helen Dixon will transition to the role of Chairperson of the DPC. The Department of Justice announced these changes, highlighting the evolution of the DPC since its establishment. The Commission has faced an increasing workload and complex investigative demands, which have been emphasized by both the Commission and its stakeholders.
Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, acknowledged the DPC’s effective role in independent data protection regulation within the State. However, she noted that the Commission has struggled to manage its growing responsibilities, particularly in light of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which has intensified the volume and complexity of cases. The process of selecting the new commissioners will be conducted by the Public Appointments Service, with appointments expected to take approximately six months.
In addition to the new appointments, Minister McEntee has requested that the DPC review its governance structures, staffing arrangements, and processes to align with the new model of the Commission. The DPC has seen a marked increase in its workload since the implementation of GDPR in May 2018, which enforces strict standards for the collection, use, and storage of personal data. Given that many major technology companies have their European headquarters in Ireland, the DPC often leads investigations involving prominent social media platforms like Meta, Twitter, and TikTok.
The Irish Council for Civil Liberties (ICCL) has welcomed the government’s decision to expand the Commission but has called for an independent review to strengthen and reform the DPC. ICCL Executive Director Liam Herrick emphasized that without such a review, the new commissioners may struggle to identify necessary improvements. He criticized the Minister’s suggestion for the DPC to conduct its own review as insufficient.
Source: Data Protection Commission to be expanded
