Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the fact that there are discussions around a move towards three commissioners. I am certainly interested in hearing the Minister of State's personal view on whether this will happen, and happen quickly. In terms of addressing some of the concerns, including those raised by the DPC around its functioning, this may be a step forward. If the Minister of State cannot give a direct answer, I ask him to clarify what he means when he says a decision will be made by the Minister "shortly". I always wonder what exactly "shortly" or "imminently" means. I ask the Minister of State to provide a specific timeframe. I am sure will appreciate the urgency of the issue.

The question is not just about the commissioner and the number of commissioners. There is a broader issue around the functioning of the office. This is about ensuring we have an office that can cope effectively, given the huge challenges we are going to face over the next number of years around data protection. The Leas-Chathaoirleach and I sit on the Special Seanad Committee on the Withdrawal of the UK from the EU. One of the issues that the committee has addressed is the question of the UK's data protection regime diverging from the EU regime post Brexit. According to the DPC, such divergence could entail €1 billion in extra costs for Irish business. We must ensure the DPC is going to be in a position to be able to advise on all of those issues. I still believe there should be an independent review. I certainly believe there should be three commissioners. Perhaps the Minister of State can give us an indication of the timeframe involved.