Candidates warned on data collection when canvassing

Election candidates have been warned by the Data Protection Commissioner to ensure they properly store any data collected on the doorsteps when they go out canvassing.

In guidelines published yesterday, Helen Dixon said candidates should ensure proper safeguards were in place "to accurately record and protect any data collected . . ." when making door-to-door calls.

“If you ask constituents for their contact information . . . make sure they consent to follow-up contact if you plan it. Set out clear rules as to who may access the data you gather, where it is to be stored, in what form and how long it will be retained.”

The commissioner also said candidates should only text, phone, email or fax individuals who consented through party membership or who had consented through being canvassed previously.

Consent must have been given in the previous 12 months, for example by not opting out when they were presented with an opt-out mechanism.