· Says FOI now applies to 370 bodies
· 17,700 requests were made during 2002, of which almost 80% were granted in full or in part

Minister of State at the Department of Finance, Tom Parlon TD, today announced the publication of the Fifth Report on the operation of the Freedom of Information Act.

The Report, covering the year 2002, shows that almost 17,700 requests were made in that period, of which almost 80% were granted in full or in part.

'Freedom of Information was extended to an additional 50 bodies during the reporting period, including the Fisheries Boards, and the National Roads Authority', stated Minister Parlon.

'It is planned to extend FOI further this year to include the Performance Verification Groups under Sustaining Progress, confirmed the Minister.

The Minister took the opportunity to thank all those who have contributed to making FOI a success. He also paid tribute to the outgoing Information Commissioner, Kevin Murphy and wished his successor, Emily O'Reilly, every success in her position.

The Report can be accessed online on website www.foi.gov.ie