Access to Documents and Information Flashcards
Every person has a right to obtain access to a document of an agency other than…?
an exempt document or an official document of a minister
FOI Officers should make the maximum amount of Government Information promptly and inexpensively available to the public.
True
The FOI Act is designed to discourage agencies from sharing information?
False
How should someone make an FOI request?
a request should be made in writing to the relevant agency.
the request should include as much relevant information as possible to enable the officer to locate the document/s
the request must be accompanied by a fee
If the document requested is in the possession of another agency or is more closely related to the subject matter of another agency, the officer must?
promptly transfer the request to the relevant agency including any relevant information and notify the person/s making the request.
what must an agency do with documents in digital form? example audio recordings.
where possible convert the document into a readable format or provide equipment for access. for example, converting audio into a transcript.
What is the FOI request timeframe?
An officer has 30 days to notify the applicant the outcome of the request.
For what reasons can an FOI officer request an extension?
1) if Consultation is required - 15 days
2) for any other reason agreed upon by the applicant - no more than 30 days per each extension.
can you charge for the search of a document that was misplaced or lost?
No.
costs can be charged by the hour for…?
- time spent supervising the applicant’s inspection of documents
- ## supplying copies, converting digital formats or developing transcripts
Can charges be made for time spent determining whether a document is exempt or not?
No.
charges can be made for access to documents relating to the personal affairs of the applicant?
FALSE
If it is the opinion of the agency that the charge will be greater than $25 the agency must notify the applicant of its opinion and inquire whether the applicant wishes to proceed.
TRUE
Which documents can be provided outside of the Act?
- documents provided by the agency for use or guidance by the agency or its officers in making decisions, enforcements and recommendations to persons inside and outside the agency.
- documents containing interpretations of the law
Access shall be given in the form requested by the applicant (for example hardcopy printout)
TRUE
