Guide only — this service is not sold on this site. An outsourced Data Protection Officer is an ongoing professional service, which we do not provide. The information below explains what is involved so you can choose a provider with confidence.
OnlineLegalServices.ie is operated by Plus Promotions Limited, which is not a solicitor’s practice and does not give legal advice. For legal advice on data protection, use the Law Society of Ireland’s Find a Solicitor directory.
An outsourced data protection officer (DPO) service in Ireland gives organisations ongoing data protection support, usually for a monthly fee. A DPO advises on compliance with the Data Protection Act 2018 and the EU GDPR, monitors how personal data is handled and acts as the contact point for the Data Protection Commission (DPC).
What an outsourced DPO typically does
- Advises the organisation and its staff on their data protection obligations
- Monitors compliance, including policies, training and audits
- Advises on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs)
- Acts as the contact point for the Data Protection Commission and for data subjects
Who this is for
- Organisations required to appoint a DPO
- SMEs wanting ongoing GDPR support
- Organisations without in-house expertise
- Businesses with frequent data questions
How to appoint an outsourced DPO
- Check whether you are required to appoint a DPO under Article 37 GDPR.
- Choose a provider with expert knowledge of data protection law and practice — this can be a solicitor’s practice or a specialist consultancy.
- Agree a written service contract that sets out the DPO’s tasks and independence.
- Publish the DPO’s contact details and notify them to the Data Protection Commission.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outsourced DPO cost?
This page is a free guide — nothing on it is for sale. Providers set their own fees, usually as a monthly retainer that depends on the size of the organisation and the type of data it processes. Ask for the scope and fee in writing before you sign.
Which organisations must appoint a DPO?
Public bodies and organisations whose core activities involve large-scale monitoring or special category data.
Can a DPO be external?
Yes. A DPO can be an employee or an external service provider.
For more on GDPR and data protection, see our GDPR & Data Protection in Ireland guides, or browse our self-complete GDPR templates.
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