Access to information under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Acts 1997 and 2003
The FOI Acts are designed to allow public access to information held by public bodies which is NOT routinely available through other sources.
It is important to note that the FOI Acts contain specific provisions which are designed to allow a public body to protect information which is sensitive. These are known as the exemption provisions, of which there are twelve. Should a public body withhold information which has been requested under the FOI Acts, the specific exemption clause which has been invoked will be clearly explained.
Fees relating to FOI Requests
The Freedom of Information (Amendment) Act 2003 introduced a number of amendments, notably in relation to fees. Upfront fees now apply to all requests for records relating to non-personal information made under the Freedom of Information Acts.