asked the Taoiseach if he will arrange to make available for inspection by writers, historians and the public generally, records relating to the Easter Rising which are now held by the State under secrecy rules.
2.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Easter Rising Records.
1.
asked the Taoiseach if he will make available to historians documents, now in State custody, relating to the 1916 Rising for the purpose of setting down a clear historical record of the event.
With your permission, Sir, I propose to take Questions Nos. 1 and 2 together.
A number of Government offices hold records relating to the Rising of 1916. In the State Paper Office and in the collection made by the Military History Bureau, there is a relatively large body of such records. It is likely, however, that, for the historian, there are more important collections in British Government offices.
It is understood that the British collections are not scheduled for release for a considerable time. The question of the control of the records of Government Departments generally is at present under consideration and it may be that this consideration will result in proposals for legislation. The collection made by the Military History Bureau is still covered by the rules of confidentiality under which the material was contributed.
The records in the State Paper Office include correspondence between individuals and Government offices as well as police reports and official minutes which passed between Government servants. Much of the material deals with persons still alive or with those whose immediate relatives are alive. The restrictions imposed on access to those papers were designed in the public interest and, in my opinion, they continue to serve the public interest. I should emphasise that my view on this is not related particularly to the State Papers for 1916 but is applicable to all State Papers of less than 70 years of age.
The State Papers are arranged and classified and I can assure historians that my Department will continue to offer to supply, where possible, information by way of answers to specific questions about the 1916 Rising.
Does the Taoiseach not consider that certain of the State papers might be made available to historians, and other people interested, for inspection purposes without any danger of the kind to which the Taoiseach adverted in his reply? I refer to the type of papers which deal with the general situation in a generalised way and in which there would be no specific reference to individuals. Surely papers of that kind might be made available? Further, does the Taoiseach not consider that the process he suggests of asking specific questions is liable to result in considerable delay in getting the information?
Yes. Limited access, subject to conditions, to bona fide historians to some of these papers could be considered, but nothing beyond that.
While substantially agreeing with the Taoiseach's view as to the general treatment of the State papers referred to, I should like to ask the Taoiseach has he considered the desirability of directing that these papers should be microfilmed and stored in the National Library, or in some other place of safety, lest any catastrophe should destroy the originals?
The papers I am talking about are kept in the State Record Office and the question relates to the possibility of releasing them from that office. The papers are there; they are classified; they are now being indexed. I am sure precaution is taken to ensure their safety.
Would the Taoiseach consider ad interim that these papers should be microfilmed so that they will be available for the future should any fire catastrophe destroy them?
Is that office in the Castle?
Yes. There are a number of records in other Government Departments. There are also records in the Bureau of Military History.
Could the Taoiseach say how historians are defined for the regulations?
A bona fide historian is identifiable.
That is a very relevant question and a very discreet reply.