The long-awaited Data Sharing Standards Framework has been published. Developed by the Data Governance Unit under the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO), the framework provides a practical roadmap for implementing data sharing across Ireland’s public services, in line with the Data Sharing and Governance Act 2019 (DSGA) and international best practices.

The framework is aimed at all those involved in data sharing across the public service, and is particularly relevant to data sharing agreements drawn up under the 2019 Act and adopted under the 2019 Act. However, the use of the framework remains optional.

The document introduces a structured model built on four key layers – legal, organisational, semantic, and technical. It is underpinned by six principles – integrity, transparency, security, availability, confidentiality, accountability.

Roadmap for development

The framework offers a roadmap to guide the development of consistent, secure, and ethical data-sharing initiatives, which enabling better public service delivery, reduced administrative burden, and improved evidence-based decision-making.

In-line with current public service data strategies and initiatives, including the Harnessing Data Effectively section of the Connecting Government 2030 ICT Strategy, the framework also emphasises the need to re-use data for better public sector service delivery.

The Government has also launched a suite of resources to assist in the application of the standards. The supports available clarify operational rules, procedures, standards and guidelines. Also included is a new step-by-step visual guide that enables public bodies to legally join an active and effective Data Sharing Agreement under the same data sharing terms, as published on the Data Governance Board Register. It outlines a five-stage process to ensure compliance with the Data Sharing and Governance Act 2019.

Suite of supports

Speaking at the launch of the suite of supports, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation, Jack Chambers, said: “The launch of the Data Sharing Support Suite marks a significant step forward in strengthening data governance across the public service. These supports will enable public bodies to share data securely and efficiently, improving service delivery while maintaining transparency and trust. Ireland continues to lead internationally in this area, as reflected in our strong standing in the OECD Digital Government Index.”

Barry Lowry, Government Chief Information Officer, added: “The Data Sharing Support Suite is a cornerstone of our commitment to ethical, secure and efficient data sharing. It provides the tools and standards that public bodies need to deliver better services for citizens while maintaining the highest levels of governance and trust.”