Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

Are such files put into the public domain as the years pass? They will have been retained for what seemed good and sensible reasons at the time of the 30-year rule. Are they then retained for ever more or do they come into the public domain?

I will not say I was amused as it is not a suitable word. If my colleague in Howth hears me use the word "amused", he will not be amused. I thought it amazing that as recently as 30 years ago, military intelligence was keeping files on Cabinet Ministers. Does the Taoiseach think this is still happening? Military intelligence was keeping files on Conor Cruise O'Brien, probably the most trenchant critic of terrorism in politics at that time. Does the Taoiseach think military intelligence is keeping an eye on Deputy Cullen when he goes abroad or on whatever he is doing about road tolling? Could this be happening today and is it justifiable?

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