Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)

Has the Data Protection Commissioner prosecuted any of the individuals involved? With regard to the third case, I assume the Minister refers to the case of the lady who won the national lottery. Some 106 officials looked up that person's file. This means 106 officials abused their position. I would not consider that breach as of a less serious nature. I am sure the Minister agrees that staff are not engaged to look up people's private information for their own amusement.

The Minister used the phrase "the strongest possible line". Does he believe that line should include prosecution of those within the Department who abuse their position? I put it to him that if people do not fear prosecution for abuse of position, there is little to stop them from continuing with this type of behaviour.

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