Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 296: To ask the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Information Commissioner, in her annual report 2004 published on 9 June 2005, called for a review of the fees introduced by the Government regarding the Freedom of Information Act 1997; if he has instituted such a review; when this review will be completed; and if he has not instituted such a review, his reasons for refusing same. [31386/05]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware of the views expressed by the Information Commissioner in relation to charges that apply under the Freedom of Information Acts.

I am satisfied that the charges in operation strike the correct balance between the burden and cost to the taxpayer of administering the FOI Act, and the need to allow people to continue to have access to information. I have no plans to initiate a general review of these charges.