Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)

I fully appreciate what the Deputy is driving at but it is possible to add bodies by statutory instrument under the Freedom of Information Act 1997. Given the sensitive remit and functions of the new review board, I am not disposed to bringing it under the Act on a statutory basis. There is no suggestion that the mental health commission or the mental health tribunal operating under its jurisdiction should come under the scope of the Act. It is provided that bodies can be added to the list of FOI bodies. I do not want to burden this body with a statutory obligation, which could not be amended subsequently, without legislation, particularly as it takes up its new functions and bearing in mind its sensitive remit, without giving it adequate consideration.

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