The Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives the public a general right of access to many kinds of information held by public authorities. The aim of the Act is to increase openness and accountability in the public sector.
Under the Act, from 1st January 2005 anyone seeking information from the Council will have:
The right to be told whether or not the Council holds the information being requested
The right to have that information provided to them
Any information held by Council is potentially eligible for release but certain categories of information may be protected, for example, personal information or commercially sensitive information.
A great deal of information is already publicly available from Council without having to make a special request for it. The types of information included are given in the Council's Publication Scheme.
How can I make a request? If you want to make a request under the Freedom of Information Act, please note that your request
Must be in writing (this can include e-mail or fax)
Must state clearly what information is required
Must state your name and address so that we can contact you
You can send your request
By post to: Freedom of Information,ArmaghCityand District Council, Palace Demesne,Armagh,BT60 4ELor
When Council receives your request, it must respond as soon as possible and not later than 20 working days after receiving the request. Council must confirm or deny that it holds the information requested and either provide the information or explain why it has not been provided.
In some cases, Council may charge a fee for providing information, but where this applies you will be informed in advance so that you can decide whether to proceed with your request.