Protecting Private Data Crucial in National Identification System, says BOJ Senior Counsel

The Joint Select Committee of Parliament is currently reviewing the proposed National Identification and Registration Act, 2020. Amidst this review process, a senior legal counsel at the Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) has emphasized the importance of ensuring that private data is properly protected.

Concerns over Data Protection

Celeste McCalla, Senior Legal Counsel at the BOJ, expressed concerns over the lack of strong measures to safeguard information collected under the new National Identification System (NIDS). In her submission to the committee on Tuesday, she emphasized the importance of providing clear language in the bill to give Jamaicans assurance that their personal data will be properly protected.

• What is expected of the authorities to ensure that the information will be properly protected when it is collected by that entity?
• What measures will be in place for the protection of such information?

Amending the Bill

McCalla also suggested amending a provision in the bill that references preventing identity theft, recommending instead the use of “minimising” to acknowledge that absolute prevention may not be possible. Attorneys from the Office of the Chief Parliamentary Counsel noted that similar language is used in the Data Protection Act.

Committee Response

Committee members responded to McCalla’s concerns, with Chairman Delroy Chuck emphasizing the objective of preventing identity theft and Attorney General Marlene Malahoo Forte requesting examples of steps being taken to prevent such crimes. NIDS Project Director Warren Vernon explained that measures include linking biometric data to birth certificate records, acknowledging that while efforts are made to prevent identity theft, there is always a risk due to human factors.

Striking a Balance

The debate highlights the importance of striking a balance between national security and individual privacy in Jamaica’s identification system. As the committee continues its review, stakeholders hope for a comprehensive framework that safeguards private data while ensuring national security.

In conclusion, protecting private data is crucial in Jamaica’s National Identification System. The BOJ Senior Counsel’s submission emphasizes the need for a robust legislative framework to safeguard personal information and ensure accountability. The debate underscores the importance of finding a balance between national security and individual privacy, and it is hoped that the committee will produce a comprehensive framework that addresses these concerns.