Ireland

Can I complain to the Data Protection Commission?

Free service
Cost to complain
No time limit
Deadline to complain
12 weeks
DPC response target
Section 100
Legal basis
The Short Answer

Yes, you can complain to the Data Protection Commission (DPC) in Ireland if you believe your data protection rights have been breached.

What the Law Says

The Data Protection Act 2018 gives individuals the right to lodge a complaint with the Data Protection Commission if they believe their personal data rights have been infringed.

Under Section 100 of the Data Protection Act 2018, any person may make a complaint to the Data Protection Commission concerning an alleged infringement of their rights under data protection law.

The DPC is required to examine the complaint and take appropriate action — including investigating, mediating, or issuing enforcement notices — depending on the circumstances.

You do not need to go through the organisation first, though the DPC may encourage you to try resolving the issue directly before escalating.

Statutory Text

Any person may make a complaint to the Commission concerning an alleged infringement of the rights of the data subject under this Act or the Regulation.

Data Protection Act 2018, s. 100 — Complaints to the Commission

What to Do

1

Gather evidence (e.g., emails, screenshots, correspondence) showing the data protection issue.

2

Submit your complaint online via the DPC’s official complaint form at dataprotection.ie.

3

Include your name, contact details, a clear description of the issue, and the organisation involved.

4

Keep a copy of your complaint and note the reference number the DPC provides.

5

Wait for the DPC’s acknowledgment (usually within 5 working days); most complaints are resolved within 12 weeks.

Sources

Same Question, Other Jurisdictions

Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.