Freedom of Information Questions
The Department of Agriculuture and Rural Development (DARD) provides a list of frequently asked questions and answers relating to Freedom of Information Act and how to access information generally from the Department.
What can I request under the Freedom of Information Act?
How do I make a request?
Will I be able to get any information I want?
What if the information is refused?
You have the right to request any information held by DARD. The act allows access to recorded information, such as emails, meeting minutes, research or reports, held by the Department.
Your request must:
- be made in writing. This can be electronically eg. fax, email;
- state the name of the applicant and an address for correspondence (an email address is also acceptable); and
- describe the information requested
Not always. The Act recognises that there will be valid reasons why some kinds of information may be withheld, such as if its release would damage commercial interests.
DARD is not obliged to deal with vexatious or repeated requests. In addition, the Act does not provide the right of access to personal information about yourself. This is instead available under Data Protection Act 1998, again subject to certain exemptions. The right of access to environmental information is available under Environmental Information Regulations (EIRs) which is subject to certain exceptions.
Where DARD decides not to disclose the information requested we will give reasons for the decision. We will explain how the exemption or exception applies and we will explain the arguments under the public interest test. DARD will then inform you of your right to complain to the Information Commissioner's Office
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