State papers, released by the National Archives under the 30-year rule in December, were worryingly incomplete. An official at the Department of Justice explained they had neither the manpower nor the time to produce files dealing with a scandal that forced the retirement of the most senior Garda officers. Records released by the Department of Finance were also incomplete. Such treatment of a legal responsibility is unacceptable.

If we are to learn from past mistakes and guard against wasteful or improper activity, detailed files must be kept. Access to such information by the public is a cornerstone of democracy and enhances good governance. The actions and possible motivations of those engaged in decision-making should be open to examination and public scrutiny within a fixed time period. In that respect, the 30-year embargo on the release of Cabinet and Departmental files is too long. A Government that is committed to transparency and accountability would take necessary, reforming action.

The British Government agreed to reduce the time-elapse period to twenty, rather than fifteen, years following an independent inquiry there. That process is due to be completed by 2022. Some Irish historians and officials are concerned the British view on key events in Anglo-Irish relations may, as a result, receive disproportionate attention. That consideration is important but a broader, democratic purpose, is involved. Politicians and officials should operate on the understanding that their actions will be judged within their lifetimes.

If history is to stand at their shoulders, Ministers will have to accept amending legislation and provide additional resources. Electronic records have a limited shelf-life and the National Archives should be authorised to inspect and preserve official files within five years, even where a 20-year rule applies. The need for independent oversight and record protection is beyond doubt. At present, just two Government Departments out of 15 are fully compliant with their legal obligations.