Freedom of Information Act
Why the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, 1997 was introduced?
The Act establishes three new statutory rights
1. The Act gives right of access (subject to exemptions)
'To facilitate the public in accessing this information, Section 15 & 16 of the Freedom of Information Act require each public body to prepare,
publish and make available information about themselves.'
This reference tool has been published in accordance with these requirements.
It is intended as a general guide to Athlone Town Council It gives a general
description of the structure and organisation of the Council, its functions,
powers and duties; details of the services it provides for the public and how
these may be availed of; information on the classes of records it holds; arrangements
for the public to avail of their rights under the Act. It also gives information
on the rules, procedures, practices, guidelines and precedents used by the Council
in decision making. It is not a definitive description of all our services and
should you require further information on any item, please contact the Council.
The reference book is also available for consultation or removal, free of
charge from the Freedom of Information Officer, Civic Centre, Athlone, Co.Westmeath.
Telephone:+ 353 090 642 100, Fax: +353 090 647 9020
Copies of the rules, procedures, practices, guidelines and precedents, appropriate
to the Council as listed in this Reference Book are available for inspection
free of charge and a copy of any particular one may be obtained at a nominal
charge.
2. Information available outside Freedom of Information Act:
Provides details of the arrangements made by Athlone Town District Council
to facilitate the exercise of your rights under the Act. It also contains
a statement of the Council's policy on confidentiality and freedom of information.
3. How to get information under Freedom of Information Act:
- Rights of review and appeal
- Internal Review
- Review by the Information Commissioner
- Fees
- Classes of records held by Athlone Town Council
- Statement of policy on confidentiality and Freedom of Information