Thomas Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

He does, because while the request in respect of the counsellor will be refused, Members are exempt in the same circumstances if Standing Orders are introduced. The constitutional provision has nothing to do with freedom of information, because the concept had not been heard of in 1937. It has to do with court proceedings and all sorts of privilege. It is much wider than freedom of information. I do not see why the same exemption cannot be included for Members of the Oireachtas.