Access to Information on the Environment
The European Communities (Access to Information on the Environment) Regulations 2007
to 2014 give legal rights to those seeking access to information on the environment from public authorities.
Subject to certain exceptions, information relating to the environment held by, or for, a public authority must be made available on request to any person.
The Regulations provide a definition of environmental information and outline the manner in which requests for information may be submitted to public authorities. The Regulations also provide for a formal appeals procedure in the event that a person is unhappy with a decision on their request.
How do I make an AIE request?
Before making a request for information under AIE you should first visit our website, as the information you require may already be available.
In the event of a request, an application for AIE information pertaining to PAS may be submitted to FOI Officer, Ciarán Oman or by email to .
Essentials of a valid request
When making a request for information under the AIE Regulations 2007-2014, you are required to:
· state that the application is being made under the AIE Regulations 2007-2014 and submit it in writing or electronic form
· provide your contact details
· state in terms that are as specific as possible, the environmental information required, and specify the form and manner of access desired
· in accordance with the Regulations, a Public Authority may decide to charge a reasonable fee for supplying environmental information (see fees below)
· Normally you will be notified of the decision on your request within 1 month of receipt.
What can I do if I am unhappy with a decision on my request?
If you consider that your original request for environmental information was refused wholly or partially, or was otherwise not properly dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the AIE Regulations, you may, not later than one month following the receipt of the decision of PAS, request PAS to carry out an internal review of the decision in part or in whole.
Fees
As provided for in AIE Regulations, there is no initial fee required when lodging a request with PAS. A public authority however, may charge a reasonable fee for supplying environmental information in accordance with the Regulations. Details of charges, if any, will be advised in the final decision letter.
Fees will be calculated upon receipt of a request and is dependent on the volume of work involved in compiling information where it has not been previously made available in an accessible format.