​​On 31 March 2017, SEDEC commission discussed an opinion from EA group member Cllr Kieran McCarthy concerning the building of a European Data Economy as an essential resource for economic growth, job creation and societal progress. Cllr McCarthy highlighted the key role of local and regional authorities in developing the full potential of the Digital Single Market through the Data Economy. He said that "Local and regional authorities are keys in developing this potential via their roles in providing digital services for citizens and creating and managing digital infrastructure such as data generation. Digital services also represent the engine of economic growth at local and regional level offering opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship."

In line with the recommendations and questions proposed by Cllr McCarthy, the contributions focused mainly on privacy concerns, cybersecurity and the best use of the Smart Cities agenda so that local and regional authorities, as well as local businesses, can exploit the full potential of the Data Economy. The opinion issued by Cllr McCarthy will be discussed and voted the 8 June, at the next SEDEC commission meeting.