The Data Protection Authority in Guernsey has grown in size in recent years as its work becomes more and more prevalent. The recent GDPR legislation brought in last year means there are different protections and guidelines issued in relation to what data a business can retain about its customers and its employees. 

As well as fortnightly drop-in sessions at the Authority's Bordage offices which have had good attendance so far, the independent regulatory body is looking to gather feedback on proposals for training days to be made available to a range of businesses in the island. 

"I find it hard to imagine any aspect of modern life which isn't affected by data," said Emma Martins, Guernsey's Data Protection Commissioner. 

"There are advertising companies in Times Square which can use cameras you can't even see to assess whether or not you are a man or woman and tailor the adverts accordingly, think about what that means.

Pictured: Emma Martins Guernsey's Data Protection Commissioner. 

"We want to build awareness through education. Data harms are real and don't let anyone let you believe otherwise. It's about letting you achieve your business aims while being respectful to the data of individuals," she said. 

The ODPA intends to use its programme to initiate cultural change through being accessible to local organisations and citizens of all ages, improving compliance by building awareness of topical issues in data protection, encouraging innovation and excellence in data protection practices, exploring official guidance with the regulated community and gathering feedback from local industry and individuals.

"This is a key aspect of our statutory obligation under section 61 of the Law to raise public awareness of citizens’ rights and promote awareness of controllers and processors’ legal duties. We have given considerable thought to how best to achieve this and look forward to listening to what people have to say about our plans," said Ms Martins. 

The proposed programme includes sessions on ‘what is data?’, individuals’ rights, data ethics and principles, excellence and innovation in data protection and the application of data protection in the workplace.

Anyone who wishes to take part in the public consultation can visit odpa.gg/events-consultation to review the proposed events programme and send their feedback by 10 May 2019.