Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 23 June 2004
69 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the huge decrease in the number of applications received under the Freedom of Information Act 1997 and in the number of cases where decisions made by a Department are processed to internal appeal, he will review the restrictions imposed by the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Act 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18588/04]
View answerI have no plans to review the Freedom of Information (Amendment) Act 2003. These amendments were focused on key provisions of the Act relating to sensitive areas of Government activity and followed careful consideration of the operation of the legislation by the high level group of Secretaries General.
A number of amendments, particularly those relating to up-front fees, were intended to strike a better balance between the cost of administering freedom of information requests and the need to continue to allow people have access to information. I am satisfied that a better balance has been struck and that a greater appreciation of the service provided by public bodies and more considered and responsible use of the Act has resulted.
