The recent news that the GAA has advised clubs to stop using WhatsApp group chats for GDPR -related reasons shows that this legislation is being taken seriously by individuals and businesses alike.
To review the impact of GDPR since it was introduced almost eighteen months ago, the approach the courts are taking to cases coming before it under the new legislation and the type of data breaches that are causing litigation problems for companies, Shannon Chamber is hosting a GDPR workshop in association with Holmes O’Malley Sexton (HOMS) solicitors and the Data Protection Commission.
The seminar, which will take place on Thursday, 13 February from 8am – 10am, is being hosted by Ei Electronics at its Centre of Excellence in Shannon Free Zone.
Keynote speakers include Michael Murphy, partner, HOMS litigation department, who specialises in cyber risks, data protection and defence litigation and, Garrett O’Neill, head of consultation in the private and financial sector in the Data Protection Commission.
Speaking ahead of the event, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes: “While some commentary would suggest that GDPR is holding European companies back in competitive terms, we are compelled to work within its parameters. As a business representative organisation, we feel an onus to ensure that companies in this region are aware of their obligation to comply with the legislation and the consequences of not doing so, hence organising this workshop.
Topics for discussion at the event include the types of policies and procedures that companies need to put in place to directly address the issues associated with GDPR; avoiding a data breach or, where a breach does occur, mitigating the risk, time, upset and reputational damage associated with the breach.
Advice will also be given on breach reporting requirements at every level within an organisation and the reach of GDPR in terms of new technologies such as biometrics, high-resolution cameras and how technology can aid compliance.
Michael Murphy, partner at Holmes O Malley Sexton said: “There is still a lot of uncertainty of what GDPR means within Irish business and while some businesses might be waiting to see the first GDPR data breach fines coming forward before they act, we at Holmes O’ Malley Sexton are seeing an onset of personal compensation claims for data breach. Companies need to protect themselves from these kinds of cases with proper governance, adequate insurance and risk minimisation strategies. A change of culture in the workplace on personal data is paramount and being more mindful of GDPR and personal data practices and policies can make big changes in companies and ultimately protect them.”
Further information on the workshop, which is a must for every company operating in today’s GDPR-controlled operating environment is available at www.shannonchamber.ie/events-training. Advance booking, via the online link www.shannonchamber.ie/events/gdpr-impact-and-reach-to-date is essential.
This is the first in series of workshops between Holmes O’Malley Sexton and Shannon Chamber in 2020. The second workshop will focus on the management of claims and the third on corporate governance. Further details to follow.
