96. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform his plans for the reform of the FOI system; the recommendations from the last review that have been implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15896/25]

Sentiment score: 0.01

What plans does the Minister have for reform of the FOI system, which of the recommendations from the last review have been implemented and will he make a statement on the matter?

Sentiment score: 0.03

One of the Minister's predecessors, who is now a European Commissioner, undertook a significant review of the FOI system. There are still issues with certain public bodies refusing requests or redacting large volumes of information. Sometimes, it comes out through appeals that this was done incorrectly. There is a view that this is done based on trying to deter people in the hope they will not appeal, in which case the decision is likely to be overturned. I was dealing with one request recently and it was kind of new to me. The request was not submitted by me, but I was asked my views on it. The public body concerned said it could not release the information under FOI because one of the requesters had a connection to the information being sought. They were told it was a conflict of interest. That was bizarre and not something I had seen before. I am not aware of any provision in the legislation that states information can only be released to disinterested parties. Is the Minister?

Sentiment score: 0.07

I worked very constructively with former Minister, Michael McGrath, on this matter and other issues. I hope the Minister and I can do the same. Regarding this issue, we also need to consider solutions. Sometimes when people are refused an FOI request, they do not think they have the grounds to appeal the decision. I also encourage people who believe they are entitled to some information to make sure they go forward and appeal the decision. One of the solutions I suggest is if an FOI appeal to the Information Commissioner concerning the refusal or redaction of information sees the initial decision overturned, then the cost of the process should be refunded to the person who submitted the appeal. If we required public bodies to disclose in their annual reports the amount paid out in such successful appeals, this would highlight those that have had an issue with transparency or whose FOI officers may need additional types of training. I proposed a Bill in this regard. Sometimes it is just about getting proposals we can work on together constructively and try to get them over the line so the system works better.

Sentiment score: 0.28

Yes.

Sentiment score: 0.40