Vol. 425 No. 7
33 Mr. Molloy asked the Taoiseach if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some Ministers have issued instructions to their officials that they may not discuss or respond to queries from Deputies and Senators and must refer them in all cases to the Minister's Office; and if these practices are in line with the stated open government approach of this administration.
The way in which inquiries to Departments from Deputies and other public representatives are dealt with is a matter for each Department and Minister.
However, during Question Time on 8 July last year I indicated to the House that I would pursue the matter with Departments of putting proper procedures in place to ensure Deputies can get the information they seek.
I wrote to Departments in this regard and will reiterate my view to them.
