Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I thank Deputy Smith for his question. I am quite happy to ensure the appeal proceeds. I was not consulted about the decision of the Department to deny him the information. It was an automatic decision because when the request came in, we were still discussing the changes. In fact, the changes were discussed right up until just before the Cabinet meeting. I am not sure when Deputy Smith's application under the Freedom of Information Acts was submitted, but I neither asked about nor intervened in it. All I can suggest is that he lodge his appeal in the normal way.

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