The Data Protection Acts 1988 and 2003, and various communications regulations impose obligations on organisations that control personal data.
We assist clients in meeting their obligations with respect to data and privacy, and provide expertise on requirements relating to areas such as direct marketing campaigns, data transfers abroad, outsourcing, and registration.
Together with our Litigation & Dispute Resolution Department, we act for clients facing challenges and prosecution under data protection legislation.
Relevant experience in relation to data protection law includes advising:
Aviva on fair processing notices, privacy statements on its various websites, preparation of appropriate policies, disclosures and data access requests; assisting with an audit of its processing activities; on various aspects relating to the implementation of the Code of Practice on Data Protection for the Insurance Sector; on the outsourcing of certain of its activities outside the EEA.
FÁS on a wide range of data protection issues including advising on its development of policies for the vetting of workers with access to children and vulnerable people
Inditex (Zara, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Pull & Bear, Stradivarius) in carrying out a data protection audit of all Inditex Group companies in Ireland; on data protection issues arising from the establishment of its online portal ZARA HOME.
Yahoo! on various issues relating to Yahoo!’s internet activities in Ireland including transfers of data and the interaction of data protection issues with related regulatory issues concerning telecommunications regulations, data retention and data interception.
BSkyB on issues regarding marketing preferences and consents and on its fair processing notices.
Bord Iascaigh Mhara in relation to data protection matters arising from the implementation of new policies and in relation to its website.
Euroconex/US Bancorp on various novel aspects of data protection law in the credit card sector and the business of providing credit card terminals and related services.
Tesco on data processing arrangements relating to the Tesco ClubCard and the fair processing of data in the context of such; on the introduction of biometric measures.
Reed (Elsevier) on registration and international transfers of personal data to the USA, and its obligations regarding data security.
Railway Procurement Agency on the data protection issues arising in the context of the Integrated Ticketing Scheme.
We have extensive experience in advising clients in respect of alleged breaches of data protection law and in representing clients before the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.
Department
William Fry’s experienced team is ‘affable and insightful’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2012 - TMT
'William Fry's core philosophy is understanding its client's business. The team is proactive, always operating in a broader context and never focusing on a specific issue.'
Chambers Europe, 2011 - TMT
The firm has strong corporate TMT experience, with clients saying the team 'always delivers'.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2010 – TMT
Sources appreciate that “the firm is flexible and can adapt well to the needs of its technology clients,” and that “it offers broad-based knowledge and expertise in the sector.”
Chambers Europe, 2010 – Information Technology
"IT is an active area for the firm and it continues to advise notable clients".
Legal 500 EMEA, 2009 – TMT
This firm has an integrated technology and intellectual property department, and can therefore provide a full service to clients. The team has a wealth of experience in IT procurement, licensing and e-commerce matters.
Chambers Europe, 2009 – Information Technology
Team
Myra Garrett
Managing Partner Myra Garrett is praised as ‘exceptional’ for her ‘excellent understanding of the industry’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2010 – TMT
David Cullen
David Cullen is ‘one of the best in the business’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2012 - TMT
David Cullen is an ‘outstanding lawyer’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2011 - TMT
Sources report that David Cullen 'takes in the bigger picture and advises in a commercial, solution-focused context'.
Chambers Europe, 2011 - TMT
IT and telecoms head David Cullen is considered ‘outstanding’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2010 – TMT
David Cullen comes highly recommended as “an exceptionally knowledgeable and down-to-earth lawyer.”
Chambers Europe, 2010 – Information Technology
Ken Casey
Ken Casey is praised as ‘quietly confident, and client orientated’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2011 - TMT
Ken Casey is recommended for his ‘client focused approach’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2010 – TMT
Leo Moore
Leo Moore is ‘a breath of fresh air’.
Legal 500 EMEA, 2012 - TMT
Leo Moore 'garners praise from clients for his grasp of technical issues, as well as his efficient and responsive manner'.
Chambers Europe, 2011 - TMT