This major slip-up is hardly likely to inspire confidence

Published on Wednesday 1 November 2006 12:47

AT a time when the Executive and local authorities are trying to encourage the public to play a greater role in tackling antisocial neighbours it is to say the least unhelpful that details of those making complaints are not kept safe.

It should be a matter of great concern that the names, addresses and even telephone numbers, of 100 citizens who reported troublesome neighbours with the city council have been found lying in the street.

At a time when there is much controversy over identity theft and the failure of organisations such as banks and health boards to dispose safely of confidential customer and patient details this is a major slip-up. It is hardly likely to inspire confidence in those who are wary of making complaints for fear of reprisals if they feel there anonymity cannot be guaranteed.

The council has pledged that there will be no-holds-barred investigation and that action will be taken against anyone found to be at fault. It may also wish to take the opportunity to look again at its protocols for disposing safely of confidential and sensitive information with which it is entrusted.

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