Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for his observations. I would be grateful if he conveyed to me examples of where he has found the Department restrictive in publishing information that would normally have been available. As a general principle, the changes we are making in the way business is done in this House are designed to ensure Deputies who ask questions are given thorough and full information. One of the problems with Members asking questions about the Freedom of Information Acts is that they are often not specific enough in the information they wish to acquire.

I take the Deputy's point on the provision of background documentation. Cabinet confidentiality is a constitutional requirement, as is confidentiality in so far as Cabinet committees are concerned. However, in respect of the provision of background information, I will certainly be happy to respond to the Deputy if he can give me some examples of where he has found that information normally provided is in some way being constrained. There is nothing to hide in this instance and it is my intention that every Deputy who asks a question will be given full and appropriate information as part of the normal course of business in the House.

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