Government's plans to restrict the Freedom of Information Act should be changed significantly, according to an all-party Oireachtas Committee.
Following a meeting this afternoon the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Finance and the Public Service supported a call for files 'relevant to' abuse victims to be accessible, rather than files 'concerning' them.
The Fianna Fail TD chairing the committee, Mr Sean Fleming this evening said he believed significant amendments to the Government's Bill were required. He went on to describe as very important a submission on the proposed amendments by the Information Commissioner, Mr Kevin Murphy.
Mr Fleming added that he had contacted the chief whip, Ms Mary Hanifan and she had indicated the Government would examine any "positive" recommendations from the Oireachtas Committee.
Mr Fleming said the Committee also passed a motion to urgently call for sufficient time to be allowed for further hearings after important areas were identified in the legislation which will need significant amendment.
Mr Murphy's report had warned of costly litigation if some of the changes were introduced.