Departmental Records

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 September 2014

Tuesday, 23 September 2014

Questions (62)

Catherine Murphy

Question:

62. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach if it is the practice of his Department to employ an archivist to examine records and archives once records are deemed appropriate for archiving to determine the quality of the records, the importance, the estimated care and attention needed to preserve the records and so on; if not, if he will consider this option to best capture the most valuable records before they potentially deteriorate in storage. [35707/14]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

My Department has a designated member of staff who is responsible for the management of the Department’s records and a designated National Archives Certifying Officer who is charged with responsibility for compliance with the National Archives Act, 1986. Departmental records are stored in secured locations which may be accessed by authorised officials only.

It is not the practice of my Department to employ an archivist. However, the National Archive Records Acquisition and Description Division assist my Department with work relating to the transfer of Departmental records to the National Archives. Additionally, as part of its remit, the National Archives maintains on-going contact with my Department, as it does with all bodies subject to the National Archives Act, 1986, to identify records worthy of permanent preservation and secure transfer to archival custody.