Dáil debates

Wednesday, 16 May 2018

Data Protection Bill 2018 [Seanad]: Report Stage (Resumed)

 

3:40 pm

Photo of Charles FlanaganCharles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to make two points by way of concluding remarks. The first relates to age. I wish to reiterate all the points made relating to the consultation process and the arrival at the age of consent of 13 years.

I am a little concerned at issues being introduced that were not considered earlier in the debate. Deputies have talked about secrecy of the public consultation process. I wish to make clear that many people made a contribution or provided input during the public consultation process. In all cases, their documentation was received and duly given careful consideration. All submissions made to the Department during the course of public consultation are on the website. There should be no issue regarding secrecy or implications that follow therefrom by way of question mark. The submissions are all on the Department website. I am happy to state that by way of confirmation for Deputy McGrath. Once again he wishes to introduce some cloud and fog into the process.

Deputy O'Callaghan commented on amendments Nos. 13 and 14 in particular. A code of conduct can guide interpretation of Article 6(1)(f) but there is no reference in this provision to national law. Indeed, the court has already found that member states are unable to or cannot limit the scope of the provision. Deputy O'Callaghan stated that he was not a Eurosceptic but that he has a difficulty about relinquishing of national sovereignty. I look at it differently. I look at the pooling of sovereignty and the influence we can bring to bear to ensure that what we wish to do in terms of child protection can have EU-wide effect.

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