John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I agree with the Taoiseach who says 30 years is too long and five too short. The ten year period set out in the legislation is an acceptable one to wait for the release of papers referring to decisions made at Cabinet.

The Bill sets out to ensure communication between Ministers on matters relating to Government business is protected. Ministers must be allowed to exchange information and the Government must operate under the principle of permitting free expression of views, even if those views are opposed to each other. To do otherwise would frustrate collective decision making among Departments which would not be in the public interest. The early disclosure of sensitive information cannot be allowed to hinder or impede decision making by an effective Government.

Individuals and organisations have abused the law in this area with vexatious requests.