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The Information Commissioner

The overall purpose of the Information Commissioner is

• To provide independent oversight of the implementation of the Freedom of Information Law and subsequent regulations.
• To serve as an independent appellate body to investigate complaints and appeals lodged under FOI legislation.
• To promote general awareness of the FOI law and the public's rights under it.

The Information Commissioner is responsible for

• Hearing, investigating and ruling on appeals filed under the FOI Law.
• Monitoring and reporting on compliance by public authorities with their obligations under the FOI Law.
• Making recommendations for reform both of a general nature and directed at specific public bodies.
• Referring cases where it appears that a criminal offence has been committed to the appropriate authorities.
• Publicising the requirements of the FOI Law and the rights of individuals under it.

 

• Order the publishing of information, changes in practices of record-keeping and provision of training.
• Compel witnesses or production of evidence, and/or inspect records in order to reach a decision.
• Refer a matter to the court to find that a public authority has acted in contempt of court if his/her decision has not been followed.

 

• Can make any decision that could be made on the original application.
• Can refer matters to a disciplinary authority.
• Can order the publishing of information, change in practices of record-keeping, provision of training and/or disciplinary authority.
• In coming to a decision may compel witnesses or production of evidence and/or inspect records.
• Has his/her decision subject to judicial review by the Courts.
• May refer a matter to the Court to find that a public authority has acted in contempt of court if his/her decision has not been followed

Last Updated: 2011-10-06