A Sligo Leitrim TD has expressed his concerns with the comments by the Data Protection Commission that it has “serious doubts” over the lawfulness of people’s information being collected at airports in relation to the Pandemic Unemployment Payment.
The data watchdog says it says it “can’t see” how the practice of collecting information from passengers leaving the country is within the powers of social welfare inspectors.
A review by the Department has found 85 people had their payment cut for travelling abroad – but could be entitled to it back.
Deputy Martin Kenny is the Sinn Fein Spokesperson for Justice and Equality; he says the fact that the information on those travelling was collected for social protection purposes has angered many.
