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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Nov 2003

Vol. 574 No. 1

Written Answers. - Freedom of Information.

John McGuinness

Question:

377 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the social worker's file in the case of persons (details supplied) will be released under the Freedom of Information Act to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [26299/03]

John McGuinness

Question:

378 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a freedom of information request to his Department and the South Eastern Health Board from a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be expedited given that the person has made four attempts over a nine month period to obtain the information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26300/03]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 377 and 378 together.

My Department received a request under the Freedom of Information Act from the applicant referred to by the Deputy on 31 October 2003. A member of staff in the freedom of information unit established that the records subject to the request are held by the South-Eastern Health Board and not by my Department.

As required by the Act, the request was transferred to that board's freedom of information unit on 5 November 2003 and therefore this is a matter for the board in the first instance. The requester was informed in writing of this transfer.
As the Deputy is aware, when an applicant is dissatisfied with a decision made by a public body under the Freedom of Information Act, provision is made under the Act for a right of review which is carried out by a more senior officer within the public body. The review may have the original decision affirmed, varied or annulled and, if appropriate, an alternative decision made. The Act also provides for a further review mechanism with the Information Commissioner.
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