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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 13 Dec 2000

Vol. 528 No. 2

Written Answers. - Official Secrets Act.

Austin Deasy

Question:

99 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Public Enterprise if she will waive the conditions of the Official Secrets Act, 1963, in order that people who may have information which would help solve the Tuskar Air Crash would be able to divulge such information. [28715/00]

The Deputy is, I am sure, aware that the disclosure of information in the course of their duties by Government officials to other Government officials does not constitute a breach of the Official Secrets Act. Officials or former officials should therefore be reassured that disclosure of any information which would help solve this tragedy would not constitute a breach of the Official Secrets Act.

I assure the Deputy that since this accident occurred my Department has encouraged anybody with information which could help find the cause of this tragedy to come forward.

During the review of Irish and UK files relating to this accident which was recently carried out, officials, both civil and military whether serving or retired, in both jurisdictions, have been assured that no restrictions or inhibitions of the type mentioned by the Deputy have been placed on the disclosure of any information, which could help to find a cause for this accident.

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