Jamaica: Adopted Data Protection Act, 2020 including data protection authority governance

In June 2020, the Jamaican Government enacted the Data Protection Act, 2020, which includes a provision for the governance of the data protection authority. Specifically, the data controller is required to appoint a suitably qualified individual to serve as the Data Protection Officer (DPO). The DPO's role is to independently monitor the data controller's compliance with the provisions of the Data Protection Act. The data controller must inform the Commissioner of the DPO's name, address, and other relevant contact details, and promptly update this information in case of any changes. The DPO is tasked with impartially overseeing the data controller's adherence to the Act and reporting any breaches to the Commissioner. An individual cannot be considered qualified for the role of DPO if there is, or is likely to be, any conflict of interest between their duties as a DPO and any other responsibilities they may have.