Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure
Business


Background

The Freedom of Information Act 2000, which applies to a wide range of public authorities, including central and local government, establishes a right of access by the public to all types of 'recorded' information held and imposes obligations on us to disclose information subject to a range of exemptions.  However, we are not required to release information to which any exemption in the Act applies.  Typically, information may be withheld if its release would compromise health and safety of staff; where confidential data about others is included or for reasons of security.

For the Act and a full list of exemptions, see Freedom Of Information Act Opens new window

You already have the right to access your own information held on computer, and in some paper files, under the Data Protection Act 1998.  This is known as the ‘subject access right’.

You can also request information not included in our Publication Scheme by writing to:

The Departmental Information Manager,
Information Management Branch,
Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure,
Room 268A,
Interpoint,
20-24 York Street,
Belfast,
BT15 1AQ

or by e-mailing us at: foi@dcalni.gov.uk

When making a request for information you will need to provide us with a reply address and describe the information you wish us to provide.

What is a Publication Scheme?


One of the aims of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 is that public authorities should be clear and proactive about the information they will make public.  Central to this is the preparation of publication schemes (a list of classes of information which it makes, or intends to make, routinely available).  In this Scheme, ‘publication’ not only refers to printed material but also includes information in other formats such as electronic and CD-ROMs.  The Scheme sets out:

  • The classes of information we publish or intend to publish;
  • The manner in which they will be published; and
  • Whether the information is available free of charge or on payment.

How is the Publication Scheme Structured?


The Scheme brings together the many different types of information produced by the Department, and its Agencies, in a clear and structured way.  It organises the information by "class" and provides details on how to access and/or obtain it.  This structure aims to save you time and effort when searching for information.
Information