Making a Request to OFMDFM for Information
If having searched the OFMDFM website you cannot find the information you require you may wish to contact OFMDFM using the.information access request form. It would helpful if you describe in as much detail as possible the information that you require.
You may also send your request by email. Again it would helpful if you describe in as much detail as possible the information that you require.
Your request for information can also be sent by post to the Departmental Information Manager. It would be helpful if you would:
- include your name, full postal address and a contact number;
- describe in as much detail as possible the information that you require; and
- state if you have any preference for the format in which the information should be supplied.
Alternatively, if you are unable to frame your request in writing, or would like some advice and assistance to help describe what information you would like, please do not hesitate to contact the Departmental Information Manager.
If you require any help with completing your request please contact the Departmental Information Manager.
Your completed information request will be used for the purposes of dealing with your information request and sending the information to you at the address provided.
Under the Data Protection Act (DPA), OFMDFM has a legal duty to protect any personal information you provide to us. We will handle appropriately any personal data you provide in accordance with the DPA.
In this respect the Department is the “Data Controller” of personal information you provide.
The information you provide will also be used for the purposes of monitoring and reviewing the number and types of requests received. In the event of a complaint it would more than likely be shared with the Information Commissioner.
Any queries should be directed to the Departmental Information Manager.
If the information you request is already accessible in the public domain, for example on a website, then we will point you to where you can find the information.
Similarly, if your request does not relate to OFMDFM then we will endeavor to provide you with contact details of other authorities, such as other Northern Ireland Government Departments, or bodies who may be able to help you.
We will not transfer your request to others without contacting you beforehand.
If your request relates to unpublished information held by OFMDFM then we will acknowledge your request and forward it to the relevant business area(s) of OFMDFM.
We will provide you with a response within 20 working days of receiving the request.
There are special circumstances when the 20-day deadline can be extended:
- If we ask for clarification because we cannot understand exactly what information you are looking for, the “clock stops” until we receive a response from you.
- When applying the public interest test in deciding whether in any particular case it serves the interests of the public better to withhold or disclose information.
In all cases we will endeavor to keep you informed if a delay occurs.
The FOI Act makes provision for public authorities to charge fees in accordance with the Fees Regulations.
However, the majority of documents are free of charge from our website. There is no charge by us, although the user will have to meet any charges imposed by their internet service provider, personal printing costs, etc.
For those without internet access, a single printed version of the document can be made available from the Information Management Unit.
OFMDFM reserves the right to charge for the production of multiple copies of documents, which are otherwise free of charge.
OFMDFM also reserves the right to review its position on charging.
There may be instances where a request for information is so complex that it would exceed the cost threshold. In these circumstances you will be informed of the options open to you, such as refining your question so that it can be dealt with without charge.
Whilst the FOI Act is designed to provide access to more information than was previously the case, there are 23 exemptions which limit the right of access.
The exemptions operate in different ways and the following factors are considered:
- the content of the information;
- the effect that disclosure would have;
- the source of the information; and
- the purpose for which the information was recorded.
The FOI Act recognises that the disclosure of certain categories of information may, at the particular time of the request, be harmful to the wider public interest. For example:
- where disclosure might be harmful to an important public interest, such as national security or international relations;
- where disclosure is prohibited by statute; or
- where responding to a request might involve providing personal information about other individuals.
As the FOI Act strikes the balance between different interests, a decision to withhold or release information will itself require a careful balancing act. Access to information legislation is about providing the framework within which decisions can be made on where the balance of public interest lies on the release or withholding of information on a case by case basis.
The supply of information under the FOI Act does not give the recipient the automatic right to re-use it in any way that would infringe copyright. This includes, for example, making multiple copies, publishing, and issuing copies to the public. For further information and guidance on copyright please email opsilicensing@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk. Website Access the Office of Public Sector Information website.
Please see the What if I am dissatisfied section.
The OFMDFM procedure is currently being updated.
