The opening of the State Papers from 1982 to the public by the National Archives of Ireland has met with a low key response.
Although reporters and academics were granted access last week, today was the first day members of the public could study the texts themselves.
None of the 16 researchers visiting the archives on Bishop Street at 1pm were there to view the most recently released papers.
According to head of the Reader Services Division at the National Archives, Aideen Ireland, this may be due to release timing, which takes place on January 2nd every year.
“On a normal day, we could have 50 to 60 researchers come in to study family and local history, but this is an awkward week for many people with starting work and study again,” she said.
“It seems to be somewhat consistent with previous years, but I couldn’t say how many people we will see over the next few days.”
Ms Ireland said 1982 was an interesting year, with three elections and the Falkland War, and said she hoped these events would entice people to view the papers.
“The usual people who would come in to local at the records would be academics, people publishing books, although we do get people coming in off the street if there is something in particular that they are interested in or if they think they or one of their family members may be mentioned,” she said.
Ms Ireland said she is hopeful 2013 will see a lot of people visiting the National Archives as part of the Gathering.
“Groups come every year from Australia and America and we’re hoping this will pick up this year.”