Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

The extension of the Freedom of Information Act to a wide range of public bodies – which was done not because it was required under the 1997 Act, but because the recent Government chose to do so – and the introduction of other measures such as the Standards in Public Office Act 2001 which established a comprehensive ethos and framework for public officials, show a very firm commitment on the part of the Government to the maintenance of the highest standards of accountability in public life. I confirm to the House that senior civil servants are covered by the Standards in Public Office Act.

The issue of political party costings was raised earlier although I am not too sure who raised it. It may have been Senator Higgins. The practice whereby political parties have been able to have political proposals costed in confidence by the Department of Finance has provided a very valuable contribution to political debate over the years which has been of benefit both to Government and Opposition parties. There are compelling public interest arguments in favour of the Department of Finance being in a position to provide independent, objective advice on costings of particular policy proposals from political parties on a strictly confidential basis, based on the most up-to-date data available. This is of particular importance where such proposals are being considered and are likely to be put before the electorate as part of a party's political manifesto, thereby raising expectations among the electorate which would eventually lead to increased pressure on the public finances.

Senator Brian Hayes referred to the Official Secrets Act. I am not clear on his question. The Freedom of Information Act 1997 overrides sections 4, 5 and 9 of the Official Secrets Act.

Reference was made to parliamentary questions and the exemption of briefs. Parliamentary questions are answered in the Dáil. The questions are a matter of public record. Other documents and notes are often attached to these answers to give the Minister a wider understanding of the relevant issue. It is my view that it would be inappropriate to use the Freedom of Information Act to obtain access to these records. The answer to the parliamentary question is what matters.