Labour vows to oppose FoI amendments

The Labour Party has vowed to oppose the Government's proposed restrictions on the 1997 Freedom of Information Act.

Last week, the Fianna Fail-Progressive Democrats coalition announced plans to restrict the release of communications between ministers and any documentation relating to matters that are still under deliberation.

It also plans to extend the time-frame for withholding cabinet papers from five to 10 years.

Labour Senator Kathleen O'Meara said her party is outraged at the way the Government is attempting to push through the proposals without proper consultation. She said Labour would not co-operate with any Government business in the Dail or Seanad while the controversial amendments bill is before the Oireachtas.

"It totally undermines a basic principle of openness and transparency," she said.