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1995 Warning: FOI Law Could Weaken Ireland's EU Influence

12/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 1995, officials from Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs warned that proposed Freedom of Information legislation could hinder Ireland's ability to obtain information from EU institutions, the European Council and European Commission.
An internal DFA document showed that officials relied on European Commission documentation for negotiating positions and warned that public release would dry up sources and weaken Ireland's influence.
The legislation was implemented in 1997, with updates in 2014.

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Story summary

In 1995, officials from Ireland's Department of Foreign Affairs warned that proposed Freedom of Information legislation could hinder Ireland's ability to obtain information from EU institutions, the European Council and European Commission.
An internal DFA document showed that officials relied on European Commission documentation for negotiating positions and warned that public release would dry up sources and weaken Ireland's influence.
The legislation was implemented in 1997, with updates in 2014.