Further to minute 16 (2/12/2011) Jane Corrin, Information Manager, presented a report including a breakdown of Freedom of Information (FOI) requests that were received in 2009/10, figures from neighbouring Local Authorities, and analysis of the FOI requests, which were recorded in a central register. She responded to questions from members concerning:

-  the legislation and definition of FOI requests;

-  the mechanism for making requests (95% were received by email);

-  the breakdown of requests received in 20009/10 and trends in terms of the increase in requests relating to highway maintenance and environmental complaints;

-  the cost of facilitating requests and the methodology for itemising costs;

-  further benchmarking with public bodies to include the Joint Boards;

-  requests for information concerning third parties;

-  the possibility of charging for the more detailed requests

Resolved –

(1)  That the report be noted.

(2)  That Jane Corrin be thanked for her presentation.

Further to minute 13 (29/9/210) the Director of Finance presented a further report including a breakdown of Freedom of Information (FOI) requests that were received in 2009/10, figures from neighbouring Local Authorities, and analysis of the FOI requests, which were recorded on a central register and held in calendar year format.

Resolved - That the report be noted and that Jane Corrin, Information Manager, be asked to make a presentation to the next meeting of this committee outlining the key points in her report.