From January 2005, the Freedom of Information Act 2000 gives a general right of access to all types of recorded information held by public authorities, sets out exemptions from that general right, and places a number of obligations on public authorities.  The Act is intended to promote a culture of openness and accountability and therefore facilitate better understanding of how public authorities carry out their duties, why they make the decisions they do, and how they spend public money.

More information about Freedom of Information (FOI) can be obtained from the Information Commissioner, who enforces and oversees the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Website: www.informationcommissioner.gov.uk

Address: Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5AF

Telephone: 01625 545700 Fax: 01625 524510

ERINI is committed to the principles of openness and accountability whilst at the same time protecting the privacy of personal and sensitive information.

If you wish to contact ERINI about FOI issues, please write, stating your name and contact details, to

The Information Manager

ERINI2^nd Floor, Floral Buildings
2-14 East Bridge Street
Belfast
Northern Ireland
BT1 3NQ

Fax: 028 9031 9003

Email: foi@erini.ac.uk

Requests for information should provide as much detail as possible to identify the information requested.