Privacy and digital rights groups demand new selection process of DPC third commissioner

Privacy and digital rights campaigners have publicly criticised the recent appointment of Niamh Sweeney as the third Commissioner of the Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC), citing serious concerns about impartiality and independence. In an open letter to the Irish government, the group claims that Sweeney has previously held a senior public affairs role at Meta, one of the largest technology platforms that the DPC is mandated to regulate. Furthermore, her most recent consultancy role, which ended in August, involved advocacy work for similar platforms, potentially subjecting her to non-disclosure agreements and other contractual obligations that could compromise her supervisory duties.

The group argues that the appointment reflects a disregard for the government's obligation to ensure the impartial and effective implementation of EU law, which mandates that supervisory authorities act with full independence. The impartiality of the DPC is considered equally critical for the entire EU, as it serves as the lead supervisory authority for many of the world's largest technology companies. The letter goes on to highlight that the opaque selection process, which allegedly eschewed necessary expertise and independence, is seen as further damaging fragile public trust, particularly amid broader geopolitical tensions.

The signatories are urging the government to conduct a new, fully transparent process to appoint a Commissioner with a proven record of protecting fundamental rights. They are also demanding an independent review of the flawed appointment process.

The letter has been sent to:

• Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, Government of Ireland,
• Jim O'Callaghan, Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, 
• Ian Simington, Chair, Top-Level Appointments Committee.

And CC'd to:

• Dale Sutherland, Commissioner, Data Protection Commission, 
• Dr Des Hogan, Commissioner, Data Protection Commission.

The move follows a similar open letter sent earlier in the month by European Digital Rights (EDRi), along with 40 other civil society organisations, to European Commissioner Michael McGrath.

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