Gay Mitchell (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 357: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of hits which were made to the social welfare computer records of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; the reason these were made; if he has satisfied himself that there are sufficient penalties in place to deal with civil servants who use this information for improper purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26413/05]

Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)
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My Department recently undertook an examination of accesses to a particular computer record. During the period examined, our records show that 125 individuals accessed the record in question. The details of those who accessed the systems were brought to the attention of my Department's management.

In addition to a general circular to staff stressing confidentiality obligations, a further communication has issued to the managers of the individuals involved, concerning their access to the data. Further action, including the application of any penalties, will depend on the outcome of these inquiries.

If it is established that there was inappropriate access to records by a staff member, the case will be referred to the personnel officer for appropriate action under the Civil Service disciplinary code. I am satisfied that the matter can be dealt with adequately under the code.

My Department views its obligations to safeguard the privacy of data under its control very seriously and has undertaken a considerable amount of work in this area over the past few years. It has also imposed sanctions where warranted up to and including dismissal, for the misuse of personal information.