ADRC-NI researchers Professor Gillian Robinson, Professor Helen Dolk, and Dr. Joanne Given presented “Public Attitudes Toward Data Sharing in Northern Ireland,” at the Knowledge Exchange Seminar Series (KESS) held at Stormont—our parliament buildings—on January 31, 2018.
One of the most interesting results presented that day was that 83% of those surveyed felt that the “right to privacy has to be respected over everything else.” At the same time, 85% felt that if personal data can be made anonymous and a person’s right to privacy maintained, then the data should be used where there is a benefit to society.” The ADRC-NI’s work ensures that data is made anonymous and privacy is protected.
The event was completely full and attended by an audience of civil servants and representatives from various voluntary sector organisations. Following the presentations, there was a question and answer session where our team was able to explain how our centre’s protocols and practices protect privacy and secure data.
Since the public is at the centre of all aspects of data collection and sharing—providing the data, paying for the research, and as the beneficiaries of research impact—public dialogue in this process is essential. And, that is why this team from ADRC-NI conducted this research…so that they can continue to understand what is important to the public and be accountable to the public. The KESS venue provided an important outlet for sharing the survey results.
We are always interested in hearing feedback and engaging with public stakeholders. If you would like to engage with us, please contact the Public Engagement and Communications Officer, Katy Karnell, at k.karnell@ulster.ac.uk or samantha.livingstone@qub.ac.uk
Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey_Research Update (short results as PDF)| Northern Ireland Life and Times Survey_Full Dataset| Twitter “Moment” compilation from the day