Fees and exemptions
Are there any fees?
In the majority of cases there will not be a charge.
The FOI Act makes provision for public authorities to charge fees in accordance with the Fees Regulations (which are laid before parliament).
There may be cases where a request for information is so complex that it would exceed the cost threshold. In these instances you will be informed of the options open (such as refining your question so that it can be dealt with for free).
Can all information be released?
In some cases we will not be able to answer all or part of your request because the NIO does not hold the information.
In most cases information that the NIO holds can be released but the FOI Act does include a number of exemptions covering areas such as national security and information provided in confidence. If the NIO decides to apply an exemption you will be kept informed.
The supply of information under the Freedom of Information Act does not give the recipient or organisation that receives it 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.
What about personal data?
Requests for personal data are still covered by the Data Protection Act (1998). If you would like a permanent copy of the data which you believe the NIO holds on you then a subject access request can be made by writing to the Records Management and Review Team at the NIO London office. You will need to provide a cheque for £10 (made payable to the Northern Ireland Office) and provide adequate identification before your request is processed. Once this has been received we will provide a response within 40 calendar days.
