Seanad debates

Tuesday, 4 March 2003

Freedom of Information (Amendment) Bill 2003: Second Stage.

 

The ultimate insult in the Bill is the Government's proposal that it be ten years before Cabinet papers are released. That is being very conveniently used as a key argument when it is no argument. By ramming this measure through the Oireachtas, the Government is being totally and grossly irresponsible. It is showing contempt for Parliament but particularly for the public which has an established right to have access to information. It is recognised that the legislation introduced in 1997 was far reaching. It was an example to other jurisdictions and has been held up by other jurisdictions as an example of what could be achieved in allowing people responsible access to information. By rowing back on this, the Government is doing irreparable damage. I again implore the Leader of the House not to go ahead next week until we have had an adequate opportunity to fill in the gaps and voids in terms of the deliberative dialogue that should have taken place with interested parties outside the House. I ask her to postpone Committee Stage until such time as we have had an opportunity to debate the matter with interested parties and hear the views of the general public and then, in no circumstances whatsoever, to attempt a restrictive debate or a guillotine on Committee Stage. That would be the ultimate injustice and insult.

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