Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I could debate at length the differences between what I am proposing in amendments Nos. 12 and 28 and the Government's exact proposal in amendment No. 27. It is important to acknowledge that the Government has gone a considerable way towards clarifying the basis on which data is being shared, the impetus for data-sharing and the kinds of ways in which data is shared. For example, clarification has been provided regarding whether the information relates to individuals or to classes of data subject, and regarding whether it is being collected on a once-off or ongoing basis. I have sought to spell out a number of these issues in amendments Nos. 12 and 28. In light of the movement from the Government in this regard, I think I will withdraw amendment No. 28. Amendment No. 12 might involve duplication. I would like the definition of "data-sharing" that is set out in amendment No. 12 to be included in the Bill. I recognise that it is not in it at present. Maybe it can be considered. Amendment No. 12 proposes that "In this Act, "data-sharing" means the execution and operation of defined processes for the exchange of information". I would like if that part of the amendment could be included in the Bill. I recognise that the rest of the amendment might not fit. For that reason, I am not going to press my amendments. I suggest that my colleagues in Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil might take up the definition issue. I acknowledge the Government's amendment and, on that basis, I will not pursue my amendment.