Frequently Asked Questions: Data protection and freedom of information

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Data protection and freedom of information FAQs

Q: Data Protection - Can I use the Data Protection Act to access the records of my deceased relative?

Answer:

No. The Data Protection Act relates to living individuals. As a result, the Act does not oblige the Authority to supply you with this information. However, you may have a right to access a deceased person's data through the Access to Health Records Act.

Q: Data Protection - Why does the Authority keep personal information?

Q: Data Protection - Does the Authority need any consent to use information about me for any of these purposes?

Q: Data Protection - What do I do if the information is incorrect?

Q: Data Protection - How can I prevent the Authority from using information about me for Direct Marketing or stop it from using information for a purpose which could cause damage or distress?

Q: Data Protection - How will I know if the Authority has done as I asked?

Q: Data Protection - How will I know if the decisions about me have been made by automatic means?

Q: Data Protection - What can I claim compensation for?

Q: Data Protection - How do I make a claim for compensation?

Q: Data Protection - Does the Authority provide help in understanding the information?

Q: Data Protection - What do I do if I think I have not been given all the information I asked for?

Q: Data Protection - What is the Data Protection Act 1998?

Q: Data Protection - How does it protect personal data about me?