Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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When I go into an institution I am often asked whether I have the permission of those whom I represent to speak on their behalf. My response to that is that I have already got prior permission. The Data Protection Commissioner has issued a document to indicate that when the inquirer has already registered, by way of letter, informing the body to whom he or she is inquiring what they are about, it is normal that the information would be forthcoming. It does not come in all cases, however. Even some civil servants have had the temerity to question my authority from time to time. It would not be a normal thing, but it has been known to happen. I am sure the Vice Chairman is as surprised by that as I am.