Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 670: To ask the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures in place to protect personal data within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31239/07]

John Gormley (Dublin South East, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Only personal information required for business needs is stored by my Department. Access to data is restricted to the appropriate designated sections and/or officers.

The Department's Information and Communications Technology User Policy sets out the general policy on access to and use of data held by the Department. Access to personal computers is password protected. Each user is responsible for security access to his/her computer or other ICT facility provided to them. Passwords must remain confidential and must not be relayed to any other person. Staff are also notified that they must not use another person's access rights or seek to gain access to data for which they have not received specific authorisation. Any breach of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal, in accordance with the Disciplinary Code.

Management of business units are responsible for ensuring that appropriate controls are in place governing the use of data held by the unit.

The Department's arrangements are continuously under review and will be updated and revised where necessary.