James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I assure the Senator that the Government's position is reflected in our ongoing commitment under the programme for Government to recognise the domestic and international importance of data protection in Ireland. Moreover, we will ensure that Ireland delivers on its responsibilities under the general data protection regulation.

The DPC finds itself at the fore of many key data protection decisions in the EU due to the presence of many of the world's leading technology companies in Ireland. As the Senator is aware, the GDPR is fast becoming the internationally recognised data protection standard. I assure the House that the Government will continue to engage with the DPC to ensure that the latter has the tools, support and resources it needs to perform its important role.The Government is committed to supporting the Data Protection Commission in its work. This is clearly shown in the increase in the commission's budget's from €3.6 million in 2015 to €16.9 million this year. More than €19 million has been secured for the commission in the 2021 budget, which is more than a fivefold increase on the 2015 allocation. I believe the Senator will agree that this reinforces the Government’s support in ensuring a robust regulatory framework as required by the GDPR and in protecting the State’s reputation in that regard.