\n<\/p>\n
As for the three safeguards under the PSGA, Ms Lau reiterated the need for these conditions to be met to ensure accountability and that the data is handled in a secure manner.<\/p>\n
On the first safeguard, public agencies can only share data for the same seven public purposes that govern inter-agency sharing today.<\/p>\n
In addition, each data sharing arrangement with an external partner needs \u201cspecific\u201d authorisation by a minister, or the minister’s delegate.<\/p>\n
The authorisation must clearly specify what data can be shared, which organisation receives it, and for what purpose it may be used, said Ms Lau.<\/p>\n
“This ensures high-level oversight for each and every arrangement. It is not a broad, open-ended permission.”<\/p>\n
The public agency must evaluate the organisation’s ability to fulfil its role and handle data responsibly with proper security protection, she added. Where the partner is unable to meet the required safeguards, the sharing will not proceed.<\/p>\n
Under the third safeguard, all external partners will also be bound by clear terms of use that set out how the data is protected and used.<\/p>\n
“Currently, public agencies already need to make sure external partners whom they share data with are able to meet these requirements, and are contractually bound to do so,” said Ms Lau.<\/p>\n
“While public agencies already hold external partners to such requirements, we will provide more specific guidance to ensure consistency across different partnerships.”<\/p>\n
To deter misconduct when it comes to shared data, individuals from external partners will also be liable for criminal offences.<\/p>\n
Those convicted of an offence will be subject to a fine of not more than S$5,000 (US$3,900) or jail term of not more than two years or both, said MDDI. This is aligned with data-related offences that apply to public officers under the PSGA.<\/p>\n
“Expanded data sharing will mean expanded accountability too,” added Ms Lau.<\/p>\n
Authorities can also revoke authorisation and cease data sharing arrangements with partners where appropriate.<\/p>\n
“With the proposed amendments, we maintain our commitment to protect data, while addressing the reality that effective service delivery requires trusted partnerships beyond public agencies,” said Ms Lau.<\/p>\n
“These amendments will enable vulnerable Singaporeans to receive faster, targeted and more coordinated support, when they need it most.”<\/p>\n
During the Bill\u2019s debate, eight Members of Parliament raised their concerns about various aspects of the safeguards, especially those related to ensuring accountability.<\/p>\n
MP Kenneth Tiong (WP-Aljunied) said he supported the PSGA but wanted to \u201cplace some significant concerns\u201d on the record. He brought up the TraceTogether incident in 2021, in which the government clarified that the police can access TraceTogether data under the Criminal Procedure Code.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n