Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I note that commercial sensitivities are being given great regard. I regret, however, that the same regard is not being given to the data protection sensitivities and entitlements of the individual and the concerns regarding necessity and proportionality, which have not been addressed.

I put forward amendments to make constructive proposals. I do not like many elements of section 12 but only one stood out as being incompatible with the general data protection regulation's provisions on necessity and proportionality. I will return to these issues. I regret that the Minister of State does not seem to be able to take on board what is a small and constructive proposal. Again, I have only discussed the headline issues but we will return to these matters on Report Stage. Unless we get this right and have some level of engagement on it, this will be used as a ground for a court case. Nobody wants State funds to be spent on defending court cases in Luxembourg, simply because we chose not to improve a section when we were drawing up the legislation.We can have the discussion on Report Stage. We have an opportunity get this right and we should endeavour to do so.

I will move my amendments but will not press them and reserve the right to return to them on Report Stage.