FAQsFrequently Asked Questions
Why do you use the word “alleged” when referencing my complaint?
In the examination of any data protection complaint we cannot assume that either party is right. We must examine all...
See More InformationWhy do you not say it is a breach of my rights?
Within data protection legislation the word “breach” has a defined meaning. A data breach means there was a breach of...
See More InformationWhat if I do not like how my employer found out that I did something wrong?
The Data Protection Commission (DPC) cannot examine employment issues or criminal matters but occasionally data subjects query whether their employer...
See More InformationWill I get any money if a data controller has infringed my data protection rights?
There is no mechanism for the Data Protection Commission (DPC) to award compensation so therefore you will never receive any...
See More InformationShould I tell the DPC or data controller what I want?
Yes, it will reduce the time it takes to resolve an issue if all parties are aware from the beginning...
See More InformationDo I have to submit a complaint before I can go to court?
No, at all stages it is open to a data subject to make an application to court under section 117...
See More InformationDo I need the DPC’s outcome for another statutory body?
No, often data subjects will make a complaint to the Data Protection Commission (DPC) and another statutory body such as...
See More InformationWhy will the data controller not do what I want?
Simply put, they may not be legally allowed to do what you are asking or it may not be in...
See More InformationWhy can it take a long time to examine my complaint?
You may think your complaint is a simple question but actually, there are often other pieces of legislation and responsibilities...
See More InformationDo I have to engage in amicable resolution?
Amicable (done in friendly way) resolution is a voluntary process but it is often the quickest way of getting to...
See More InformationWhat if I am not happy with the outcome of the examination?
The Data Protection Commission (DPC) examines all complaints to the extent appropriate depending on the circumstances of the complaint. However,...
See More InformationWhat happens if I get sick during the examination into my complaint?
The Data Protection Commission (DPC) will attempt to facilitate a suspension of the examination. It may sometimes be best for...
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