Feedback to a public consultation on proposed General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation has highlighted a number of clear messages.
The Cabinet Office has published the summary of responses to a consultation on the Introduction of a new Data Protection Bill, which ran from 23 January to 5 March 2018. Thirty two organisations and 25 individuals made responses.
The survey followed and ran alongside more specific engagement and various events including a well-attended GDPR conference held in January this year.
The proposed orders and regulations, which would be made under the Island’s new Data Protection law to ensure full compliance with GDPR and the Law Enforcement Directive (LED), were issued with the public consultation in January. This is in line with a policy statement contained within the Programme for Government.
Amended orders and regulations have now been published, addressing some helpful feedback and comments.
Some of the clear themes which have emerged include:
- The need for guidance and good practice information
- Concerns around divergence from the UK position
- The need to ensure that sanctions are enforceable
There were also specific comments aimed at clarifying specific wording and definitions in articles and regulations.
Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas MHK was pleased with the number and quality of the responses.
The Minister said:
‘First of all I’d like to thank all those who took part in this important public consultation. The Isle of Man Information Commissioner’s feedback has been particularly helpful. Data privacy is paramount; and the Island’s business sector needs legislation that allows it to trade internationally. We needed to get this right, and the Department has worked with stakeholders to make sure we have done.’
He added:
‘The Data Protection Bill has passed through both branches of Tynwald and I am delighted we have been able to publish a second set of draft orders and regulations which will be on the May Tynwald order paper for approval. Here’s hoping we get the same close and rigorous attention to these second drafts as we got to the first drafts.’
He concluded:
‘We have listened, and welcome further feedback, and I am confident that this transparent and open approach to developing and implementing this important new legislation can only reinforce the Island’s social and economic strength and credibility.’
