Do and Don'ts

DO

Keep it simple

Keep it short and precise

Ask as many questions as you like

but only if necessary. Try not to end your request with a question mark. Attempt to phrase your requests as statements and always request for documents or records

Do some background research and make a targeted request to the most relevant Public Authority or Authorities.

E.g.: visit the website of the Public Authority you think is relevant and find out more details as to whether the information you require will be available there.

Ask for information that should be on record

Provide information that will help the Information Officer to identify the requested information

Only give reasons if you need the information within 48 hours because it is necessary to safeguard the life or liberty of a person

Only attach documents if there is a compelling reason to do so (so as not to intimidate)

Think of how a Public Authority may try to evade the request, when formulating your request

If the information requested is information that should be proactively disclosed, mention this in the request

DON'TS

Don’t Phrase your requests as queries

Don’t attach too many documents and submit a bulky request

Don’t feel compelled to give reasons for your request

Don’t request for ideas, opinions and intentions that are unlikely to be recorded

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