It is hardly a surprise that under the Freedom of Information Act, now in operation for eight weeks, the two most feared branches of Government - the Department of Justice and the Revenue Commissioners - have received by far the greatest number of queries from the public. There have been 80 queries to the Revenue and 75 to Justice. Social Welfare had 62 requests for information and Finance 48. Of Government departments, Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands had the least - four. Requests for information can be of several sorts - personal and/or regarding policy. Under the new legislation persons can even request departmental background notes on a particular statement or document. Several ministers have had requests for such material and, generally, have supplied answers. One minister was asked for the script of a speech delivered at a function. The caller was informed there was no script as the minister was speaking merely from notes. These notes were then supplied.
The largest number of queries, however, is from people seeking their own files - up to 90 per cent have been supplied.
The Department of Finance brought in the legislation which, it is anticipated, will eventually do away with the pervading atmosphere of secrecy endemic in the civil service since the State's foundation. The DoF chairs the working group overseeing its operation. An officer has been appointed in each department to deal with queries, decide their fate and direct them appropriately. Grounds for refusal cover information about a third party or if the information is deemed prejudicial to the person's health or wellbeing. Other exempt files relate to government meetings, security and so forth.
From all reports, the new legislation is working remarkably well. Individuals with complaints have recourse to the Information Commissioner, Ombudsman Kevin Murphy. There has been no test case yet.