Freedom of Information Act

Question 1

What is the purpose of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act?

Answer 1

To promote transparency, accountability, and openness in government and public institutions

The FOI Act grants the public the right to access records held by public bodies.

Question 2

What legal right does the FOI Act grant regarding access to records?

Answer 2

The right to access official records held by Government Departments or other public bodies

This right is fundamental to the transparency promoted by the FOI Act.

Question 3

What right does the FOI Act provide concerning personal information?

Answer 3

The right to have personal information held on them corrected or updated where such information is incomplete, incorrect, or misleading

This ensures individuals can maintain accurate records about themselves.

Question 4

What is another right provided by the FOI Act related to decisions made by public bodies?

Answer 4

The right to be given reasons for decisions taken by public bodies that affect them

This right enhances accountability in decision-making processes.

Question 5

What office was established by the FOI Act?

Answer 5

The Office of Information Commissioner (OIC)

The OIC oversees the implementation of the FOI Act and addresses complaints.

Question 6

How does the FOI Act apply to healthcare?

Answer 6

Allows individuals to access records held by public bodies, applies to HSE, hospitals, and government healthcare services

This ensures transparency in healthcare institutions.

Question 7

What restriction does the FOI Act impose on accessing personal patient data?

Answer 7

Does not allow access to personal patient data unless legally justified

Protects patient confidentiality and privacy.

Question 8

Under what conditions can health records be released according to the FOI Act?

Answer 8

Health records can only be released with patient consent or under legal conditions

This ensures that patient rights are safeguarded.