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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Ministerial Responsibilities.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

497 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 58 of 14 November 2002 wherein he seemed to imply that some aspects of parliamentary business were conductible via the Internet, his views on whether a reply via the Internet is adequate means of holding relevant and responsible Ministers accountable to Dáil Éireann; his further views on whether a more effective and efficient means to elicit such information should be by way of freedom of information; if he accepts the principle of accountability to Dáil Éireann in respect of all matters for which he or his Department has responsibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1927/03]

My reply to the parliamentary question referred to by the Deputy expressed the view that it was arguable whether seeking information by way of parliamentary question which is already freely available on a website is "parliamentary business" and the best use of Oireachtas and Department resources. I was merely drawing a distinction between the concept of access to information which has already been published on a public website and the concept of accountability. The most efficient and cost-effective way in which Deputies can access information published on a website is by looking up the relevant website as opposed to putting down a parliamentary question or submitting a freedom of information request to my Department.

My reply of 14 November 2002 also made it clear that I did not consider that any business which is proper to Dáil Éireann could be conducted via the Internet. The Deputy can be assured that I fully accept the principle of accountability to Dáil Éireann in respect of all matters within my remit.

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