Publication Scheme
Effective from 1st June 2004
1. Introduction
The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002
The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 introduces a general public right of access to recorded information held by Scottish public authorities, including Angus Council. The Act comes into force in two stages:
From 1 June 2004 - Publication Scheme
Under Section 23 of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002, Angus Council must have a publication scheme setting out the information that we routinely make publicly available. Our scheme has been approved by the Scottish Information Commissioner.
Our publication scheme must set out:
- the classes of information which we publish or intend to publish
- how that information may be obtained
- whether or not a charge will be made for the information
Angus Council is committed to the principles of openness and transparency in the conduct of its business. It is intended that this publication scheme will be a valuable tool for increasing the public's awareness of the business of the Council and in further encouraging local interest and participation in the democratic process.
Much of the information we hold which is of greatest value to individuals is already available on request under separate legislation eg planning information and personal information. Our publication scheme aims to give members of the public a better understanding of what is available by acting as a one stop shop for those looking for information.
This is an initial scheme which will be continuously reviewed to incorporate feedback, ongoing requests for information, the results of public consultation and the identification of additional classes of information suitable for addition to the scheme.
From 1 January 2005 - Information not included in Publication Scheme
After this date, the public have a right of access to any information not already made available through the publication scheme, subject to certain exemptions. The Act is fully retrospective. You will have to make your request in writing (including email). We will have to respond to requests within 20 working days and can charge a fee for providing information in accordance with regulations made under the Act.
How to access the publication scheme
This document is Angus Council's publication scheme.
Paper copies of this publication scheme are also available in all Angus libraries and from all local ACCESS offices or by calling 08452 777 778.
Contacting us
The person who has overall responsibility for the publication scheme is:
Sheona Hunter
Head of Law and Administration
Corporate Services Department
Angus Council, Angus House
Orchardbank Business Park
Forfar DD8 1AN
Telephone 01307 476262
Fax 01307 476299
Email HunterS@angus.gov.uk
The person responsible for maintaining the publication scheme on a day to day basis is:
Linda Martin
Senior Solicitor
Law and Administration
Angus Council
Angus House, Orchardbank
Forfar DD8 1AN
Tel: 01307 476242
E-mail: martinl1@angus.gov.uk
Further details concerning the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002, and the publication schemes made under it, can be obtained from the Office of the Scottish Information Commissioner. Contact details for the Commissioner can be found in Section 10.