Ireland appoints a former tech lobbyist as the new Data Protection Commissioner
Niamh Sweeney, a seasoned public policy expert with extensive experience at Meta, has been named as the Data Protection Commissioner (DPC). The appointment comes into effect on October 13th, making Sweeney the third commissioner at the Data Protection Commission.
Sweeney spent six years at Meta, serving as the head of public policy for Facebook in Ireland and later ascending to the role of director of public policy for Europe, Middle East, and Africa. Prior to her time at Meta, she held the position of Deputy Commissioner at the Irish Data Protection Commission. After leaving Meta, Sweeney joined Stripe as head of communications and most recently has been a director at London-headquartered communications firm Milltown Partners.
The Data Protection Commission, one of the largest EU data protection authorities, has grown significantly in size, scope, and responsibility over the last decade. As the chief regulator for big tech firms in Ireland, the DPC has been at the forefront of ensuring compliance with data protection regulations within the EU.
The DPC and Meta have had multiple conflicts in recent years, including a €251 million fine imposed by the DPC on Meta in December, following investigations into a data breach affecting 29 million Facebook accounts globally, with three million of the affected accounts based in the European Economic Area.
The Data Protection Commission has welcomed Sweeney's appointment and looks forward to working with her as the DPC continues to uphold the EU's fundamental right to data protection. Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan made the statement about the Data Protection Commission, expressing confidence in Sweeney's ability to lead the commission.
With the addition of Sweeney, three commissioners will now lead and manage the Data Protection Commission. Des Hogan and Dale Sutherland are currently serving as commissioners at the DPC. The responsibilities and scope of the Data Protection Commission are continuing to grow, and Sweeney's experience in public policy and technology will undoubtedly be an asset in navigating the complexities of the digital age.
