Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Both HRI and the racing regulatory body hold information on participants in horse racing which was collected without the participants' knowing that the information provided may be shared with the other party. In accordance with the Data Protection Act and the principles of natural justice, these participants must be advised in advance of any transfer of information and given the opportunity to refuse or correct the information. In the circumstances, I do not propose to accept the amendment. We are in favour of the transfer of information between State bodies but data protection law needs to apply. It would be very strange if that was not the case, given that we are trying to manage and ensure integrity within the industry. As long as we apply the principles of natural justice and the data protection law, we will be covered.