Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 to 4, inclusive, together.

The evaluation of files for release to the National Archives is carried out by designated officials in my Department. I have no role in that process. As files are processed for release each year, it is normal that some are certified by the appropriate officials for retention on the grounds set forth in the Act. Some 805 files, or file parts, were transferred to the National Archives to be released for public inspection on 1 January 2010. Five files were withheld.

Of the five files withheld, four were withheld under sections 8(4)(b) and 8(4)(c) and one was withheld under sections 8(4)(a), 8(4)(b) and 8(4)(c). Files can be withheld under section 8(4)(a) on public interest grounds. Files can be withheld under section 8(4)(b) if they pertain to information obtained in confidence. Files can be withheld under section 8(4)(c) if their release may cause distress, danger or defamation. In the case of the Northern Ireland files, 86 files were released and no files were withheld in full. Some 56 files were released without any abstractions while 30 files contained documents which were either abstracted or had partial abstractions made on them.

In total, 119 entire documents were held from 23 files and partial abstractions were made on 26 documents from 20 files. Abstractions were made under section 8(4)(a), 8(4)(b) and 8(4)(c). The abstractions related to certain security information, reports of confidential discussions and certain personal information.

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