Minister of State O’Donovan launches Public Service Data Strategy for 2019-2023

Minister of State with special responsibility for Public Procurement, Open Government and eGovernment, Patrick O’Donovan T.D., today formally launched the Public Service Data Strategy 2019-2023.

The Public Service in Ireland, as in any country, has to collect, store and manage large amounts of data, including personal data in order to deliver services and develop policies. The Government is committed to doing so in a safe, secure and transparent manner that best meets the needs of society, and this whole-of-Government strategy sets out the means to do this.

Minister O’Donovan said “The Government wants Ireland to be an exemplar in the management and use of data for the benefits of all. I am therefore delighted to launch the first ever Public Service Data Strategy. It was developed in consultation with Government departments and sets out a series of ambitious goals to deliver improvements in the area of data, and in turn help to create a more efficient and effective Public Service. It is a major step in delivering the joined-up government service that everyone wants to see”.

“It will also help put an end to citizens and businesses having to provide the same information over and over again. Public Services Bodies will be encouraged to re-use data where possible, rather than recollect data”.

“Transparency is key to fostering trust between Government and citizens – this strategy includes a range of measures to increase transparency and will empower citizens by giving them more control and access to their data and its processing. A range of privacy, security and data protection measures to protect citizen and business data are central to the implementation of the strategy”.

“The launch of the Public Service Data Strategy is a key step to improving our approach to data management across Government. It aims to bring about real improvements in how we use data to deliver public services. I look forward to seeing the benefits and positive outcomes that its implementation will deliver”.