John O'Donoghue (Kerry South, Fianna Fail)

I am sympathetic to the thrust of this amendment because, in the interests of democracy, we have an interest in ensuring availability of information to Members of the Oireachtas. I expect the new authority to reply quickly, effectively and efficiently. The requirement that the authority produce a substantive answer to any written question submitted by Members of the Oireachtas within seven days would pose an administrative burden on a very small administration. The best way to deal with this issue is through the customer charter of the authority rather than specifying such matters in legislation. This is an organisational matter and I recommend to the authority that it includes in its customer charter a commitment to respond to all requests for information in the speediest manner possible and not later than 15 working days, providing the information requested is available to the authority within the time specified.

I would not be satisfied if authorities under my aegis would not reply to all communications speedily. I would take it up with agencies concerned if this happened. If this body procrastinates in dealing with requests for information the matter will be dealt with in future legislation. I cannot accept the amendment.