Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael)

The Freedom of Information Act is positive in its genesis and development thus far but it needs to be developed further. The word Informare is the Latin for "to inform", as Latin scholars such as Senator O'Toole from Corca Duibhne will know. I cannot understand why we are hesitant to give people information. The Minister of State noted the changes that have taken place since 1997, which are welcome, but Departments and public bodies, including the much-maligned HSE, must be made accountable. We have to be able to access information.

The fees imposed in Ireland are out of line with other European countries. I do not subscribe to the view that we should provide everything for nothing and I am aware of the labour and other costs involved in procuring information. I do not think the Labour Party advocates the provision of information without charge. A minimal charge should be imposed because the evidence suggests that the current fee is prohibitive. I am aware that the Freedom of Information Act is used by some people for spurious reasons but we must educate them in order to stop that practice. Charges may impose unwelcome barriers to the provision of information. If the charges cannot be reduced, a moratorium on increases might be imposed for ten or 15 years.

The Labour Party referred to the Garda. I have an open mind on whether the Garda should come under the Freedom of Information Act because, while I agree with Senator Norris that accountability is necessary, I am concerned that the work of the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission would be duplicated.

This Government has established more quangos than any other Government in the history of the State. Their boards have been filled by supporters and friends.