Proposed Legislation

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 May 2013

Thursday, 16 May 2013

Ceisteanna (142)

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

142. Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current legislative position regarding communications and privilege for papers, emails and documents sent, received and held by Members of the Houses of the Oireachtas prior to the enactment of the Houses of the Oireachtas (Inquiries, Privileges and Procedures) Bill; the change he envisages in this area after the enactment of the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23483/13]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform

The Government, at its meeting on 14 May 2013, approved the publication of the Houses of the Oireachtas (Inquiries, Privileges and Procedures) Bill 2013. The Bill provides for a statutory qualified privilege for private papers of Members and official documents of the Houses. These provisions are intended to apply in all circumstances and are not restricted to inquiries carried out under the Bill. The Bill also provides for a qualified privilege for confidential communication from members of the public to Members of the Oireachtas.