Independent European Election Candidate Ronan Mullen has welcomed the annual report issued by the Office of the Information Commissioner yesterday and called on people to work to hold the Government to account.

“Travelling around the Midlands North West constituency I’ve spoken to hundreds of people, many of whom are frustrated at how Government functions,” said Senator Mullen, speaking from Leitrim this evening. “But rather than opting out of political engagement, people should use the facilities that are available to hold government to account. While this month’s elections are an obvious way to start this, there are others means available as well.”

The ability to access public records under Freedom of Information was essential, Senator Mullen said. “While this week’s report from the Information Commissioner that over 80% of information requests are granted is welcome, it’s important to ease public access to information and to lower or eliminate the prohibitive fees involved. It seems unfair that citizens are charged almost €21 an hour for search and retrieval of records that are ultimately theirs.”

Senator Mullen noted that the Government had attempted to increase the costs incurred by members of the public to access records last year and only backed down after a public outcry.

“When this legislation was introduced in 1997, the costs associated with making a request under the legislation were fair. I am asking the Minister to reconsider the costs of Freedom of Information requests, bearing in mind that the Information Commissioner himself has proposed that the fees be abolished.”

“Easy access to public records is crucial for a vibrant democracy,” Senator Mullen concluded.