Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The evaluation of files for release is done under the 1986 Act but is carried out by designated officials in my Department. Neither my Ministers nor I have any role in that process. It is done under the legislation. As files are processed for release each year it is normal practice that some are certified by the appropriate official for attention on the grounds set out in the Act but this is a call for the official to make under the Act. I referred earlier to the sections of the Act. On the Deputy's question about provision being made to review closed files, that happens at five-yearly intervals from the date the certificate to withhold records is made and my Department complies with this statutory obligation. Files held back are subjected to a five-year review where circumstances might change and those files can then be released.

I do not have detailed figures but the numbers for the past five years amount to 55 files. There are four certifying officers in my Department, all at least of principal officer grade, as required under the Act. Other Departments have similar arrangements. The names of the certifying officers are published in the annual report of the director of the National Archives.

There is no secret about the process used. All files of more than 30 years old must be released unless they have been certified for attention by the certifying officer. They must be released unless there is a certificate issued by one of the four officers. The certifying officers in other Departments obtain the consent of an authorised officer of my Department so the Act provides for a connection with my Department.

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