Data Protection and Law Enforcement sign MoU

The Office of the Data Protection Authority (ODPA) and Guernsey Police have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

The MoU formalises how the two organisations can work together furthering relationships, developing cooperation on matters of mutual interest and ensure collaborative working where appropriate.

The agreement also means the ODPA and Police are able to provide each other with investigative support and operational assistance, increasing their overall effectiveness. This includes exchanging information where it is deemed justified, necessary, proportionate and legally permissible.

Emma Martins, the Data Protection Commissioner for Bailiwick of Guernsey, commented on this positive development which formalises the mutual respect and professional courtesy that already exists between the ODPA and the Police.

“This MoU is an important move in further safeguarding the safety and security of people’s data and privacy in the Bailiwick. It is logical for both the Police and the ODPA to have a framework in place that allows us to collaborate and assist each other in our duties to protect people locally. Together we can try to prevent the harms caused by misuse of data and, where appropriate, bring to task those that wish to, or have, deliberately caused distress.”

Mrs Martins added, “We are very pleased to have worked closely with the Police to form the agreement and are extremely grateful to all those in the force that helped bring it to fruition.”