Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 was passed on 30 November 2000. It gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities, with certain exemptions.

The Council has adopted the Model Publication Scheme for use from January 2009 as recommended by the Information Commissioner's Office.

Publication Scheme Guide to Information

All public authorities must deal with individual requests from 1 January 2005, when the general right of access to information held by public authorities comes into force. Anyone will be able to make a written request for information.

What information can I request?

You can ask to see or have copies of any records we hold, unless they are covered by an exemption.
There are two kinds of exemptions under the Act: absolute exemptions and non-absolute exemptions. If we claim an exemption under the Act, we must inform you within 20 working days what sort of exemption we are claiming and why it applies.
If the information requested is covered by an absolute exemption, we do not have to state whether or not we hold the information in question, nor consider disclosing it in the public interest.
If the information requested is covered by a non-absolute exemption, we have to consider the public interest in confirming or denying that the information exists and in disclosing information. We may disclose information, even if an exemption applies, if the public interest in disclosure outweighs the public interest in maintaining the exemption.

How do I make a request for information?

You should apply to us in writing by letter or email.. If you are making a request by letter please send it to:

Director of Corporte Services
Cookstown District Council
Council Offices
Burn Road
Cookstown
BT80 8DT

When will I receive the information?

We will respond to requests promptly and, in all cases, within 20 working days. If we make a charge, or if we need more information from you to help us deal with your request, we may take longer then usual. If information is covered by an exemption, and we have to consider the public interest in releasing it, we will try to provide the information, wherever possible, within 20 working days. We will let you know if there will be a delay in providing the information.

When will there be a charge?

We believe strongly in openness, so we will try to keep the cost of information as low as possible. There is no charge for making a request, but in some cases we may charge a fee for letting you see the records or providing the information. We will tell you of any charges when you make your request.

Can I appeal against the decision?

You have rights of review and appeal against our decisions to withhold information; about the amount of fees we have decided to charge; or if you are generally dissatisfied with the way we have handled your request.

These rights consist of two review processes. First, you should use our internal complaints procedure - contact the Clerk/Chief Executive.

Clerk/Chief Executive
Cookstown District Council
Council Offices
Burn Road
Cookstown
BT80 8DT

Next, if you are still not satisfied, you can appeal directly to the Office of the Information Commissioner by phoning 028 9051 1200 or writing to:

Information Commissioner's Office -
Northern Ireland
Room 101
Regus House
33 Clarendon Dock
Laganside
Belfast
BT1 3BG

Note: The Commissioner will expect you to have completed our internal complaints procedure before making an appeal.