Northern Ireland Public Data Panel

The Northern Ireland Public Data Panel (NIPDP) welcomes applications from across sectors; community, government, industry, academia and about all types of data use for public good. This will be the first step in opening the Panel to consider issues from across the data ecosystem and this is open to everyone.

What is a 'Data Dialogue?'

A ‘data dialogue’ is the NIPDP approach to deliberations on topics related to data use. Using a deliberative approach panel members participate in discussion and activities to consider opinions and views on a given subject. With the support of facilitators, they collectively explore information they have been provided with, along with their own experiences and views related to address specific questions on the use of data for public good.

How long is a 'Data Dialogue?'

NIPDP meet once every quarter (4 times a year), a Data Dialogue can take place over a half day session of 4 hours, or a full day session of 7.5 hours. The panel deliberates a date and time that is convenient in advance. 

Application to NIPDP

Applications should clearly outline the topic, its significance and how it impacts the public, offering insights and evidence to support the discussion.

• Download an Application for NIPDP Data Dialogue Form here.
• Applications can be easily submitted via email to info@nipdp.org making it accessible for anyone with an interest in improving the use of public data in Northern Ireland.
• Applications will be acknowledged within 3 - 5 business days.
• A virtual meeting with the NIPDP committee will be arranged, at the convenience to you, 2 months prior to the next scheduled Northern Ireland Public Data Panel commences.
• This is to answer any questions or queries you may have when presenting to the Northern Ireland Public Data Panel.
• Next steps, once your application is received, this will be presented to NIPDP for consideration by the Northern Ireland Public Data Panel members.

Applications Schedule:

Deadlines:

Current Applications for September 2025 Northern Ireland Public Data Panel

• Deadline: 27^th June 2025 for Data Dialogue 3

Current Applications for November 2025 Northern Ireland Public Data Panel

• Deadline: 29^th August 2025 for Data Dialogue 4

Role of NIPDP

NIPDP exists to bring the public voice into conversations and debates about the use of public data.

NIPDP values collaboration and is committed to fostering conversations that lead to actionable outcomes.

This gives an opportunity to raise topics of relevance to your organisations and our publics.

Objectives

This project aims to provide a forum for widening the range of perspectives on the use of data and, with publics, create better science and innovation for public benefit. It will do this by:

• Developing public data literacy 
• Testing public assumptions about data and its use in research 
• Defining what ‘public good’ means in the context of data utility
• Including of the public and their views in the governance and orchestration of service Design and delivery
• Helping to shape the direction of data use and accessibility for service improvement, data-focused research and policymaking in Northern Ireland.

NIPDP Structure

The panel will have between 15 – 20 members. Membership will last for a period of three years with consent renewed after each year.

The panel will be facilitated by NIPDP directors and business support manager to include organisation, facilitation and all support of panel members.

Other relevant people may be invited to present to the panel or be granted permission to observe where appropriate.