Joan Burton (Dublin West, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I am happy to confirm that for the Senator. The ability of Irish Water to use PPS numbers and access relevant information is compatible with the State's data protection obligation, as provided for under the Data Protection Acts of 1988. The use of PPS numbers by Irish Water will have a legislative base and it will serve a public purpose, but the Social Welfare Consolidation Act provides that it is an offence to use PPS numbers in a manner not provided for under the Act, and a fine and other penalties are provided for in the case of a person who is convicted of such an offence. It will be a source of valuable information, but that information will be covered by general protection and we are satisfied that it will not be used for any other purpose by Irish Water.