Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

A total of 1,578 files or file parts in respect of the year 1986 were transferred by my Department to the National Archives. They were then released for public inspection on 1 January 2017. Eight files were withheld in full.

The grounds for withholding records under section 8(4) of the National Archives Act 1986 are that it would be contrary to the public interest; or would or might constitute a breach of statutory duty or a breach of good faith on the grounds that they contain information supplied in confidence; or that it would or might cause distress or danger to living persons on the ground that they contain information about individuals or would or might be likely to lead to an action for damages for defamation.

Of the eight files withheld by my Department, three files were withheld under section 8(4)(a), one file was withheld under section 8(4)(b) and four were withheld under section 8(4)(b) and (c) of the Act.

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.

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