Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 December 2025
384. Deputy Naoise Ó Muirí asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation how user data is being safeguarded when the digital wallet is introduced; how it is expected that data will not be shared with ISPs; how his Department will determine the efficacy of the pilot; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [73445/25]
View answerMy Department has responsibility for coordinating the digitalisation of public services, including the release of a National Digital Wallet, which has been built by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO). The Digital wallet is being developed in line with the European Digital Identity Wallet (EUDIW) framework, which places the user at the centre and ensures that individuals have full control over their personal data.
Personal Identification Data (PID) and other credentials will be securely issued to the wallet using robust protocols. Data exchange will occur through secure, authenticated connections between the user and the relevant credential issuers. The overall design ensures that data is not shared with Internet Service Providers (ISPs). ISPs will only see normal network traffic and device connections, without visibility into the nature of the wallet or the data being exchanged.
The pilot’s efficacy will be assessed through a beta launch, incorporating rigorous technical testing and user experience evaluations to safeguard user trust. This approach delivers a secure, privacy-preserving wallet that empowers citizens to manage their own identity and credentials.
