Freedom of information act

endofrainbow

A number of months ago, I requested an update from a council about an ongoing issue that directly affects me. During the phonecall , it was mentioned that 'it wouldn't be of any use' to me. I subsequently put my request in writing and got no response.

While I understand the need for privacy and redactions etc., can they realistically stonewall me?

A number of years ago, I received the information I requested with regard to the same ongoing issue.

Ultimately I'd like to know who has the final word on whether the information is released or not. For example, can the council recommend that my request be denied and if so, can I appeal ?

Rows Grower

Contact your local TD and tell them to find the information you want.

endofrainbow

Ironically they're also ignoring a request from a local councillor..TD referred me to the councillor.

Rows Grower

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122691078#Comment_122691078

Try a different local TD and emphasise the other one let you down.

elperello

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058372985/freedom-of-information-act

You can appeal the council's decision.

https://foi.gov.ie/faqs/what-are-my-rights-of-appeal/

csirl

FOI is all about the release of records that exist.

"Give me an update in writing about xyz...." is NOT a FOI request.

"Give me a copy of the file on xyz..." IS a valid FOI request.

cheese sandwich

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122691327#Comment_122691327

That’s not strictly true

https://www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2014/act/30/section/10/enacted/en/html#sec10

Section 10 entitles a person to information regarding the acts of an FOI body that affect that person. It’s not sufficient to palm the person off by saying no records exist

GNWoodd

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058372985/freedom-of-information-act

If a valid request for information is made under the FOI acts ( particularly the original 1997 act ) you must get a reply . If you don’t you have rights of appeal internally within the organisation and externally to the FOI Commissioner.
Involving a TD won’t get you the information . It is either releasable under the legislation or it isn’t

Jim2007

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058372985/freedom-of-information-act

There are all kinds of reason as to why you would not be entitled to information and since we have no idea what you are requesting, we can't say if the act applies in your situation.

billyhead

Anyone making an FOI request has to quote the legislation i.e under the foi act of Xxxx I am seeking all information relating to etc etc.

Ted222

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122691369#Comment_122691369

Under FOI, a person is entitled to records that exist. It’s a formal process that refers to the FOI Act.

Asking for an update is not an FOI request.

csirl

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122691369#Comment_122691369

True, but acts that impact a person are e.g. where someone applied for something that they are entitled to the reason why it was approved/not approved.

It doesnt apply to decisions generally made e.g. none of us are entitled to ask D/Finance for the reason the reduction in USC impacts us all.