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Free seminar to explain public's "Right to Know"

People can find out how to use their rights to access information from Government bodies and utility companies at a free seminar to be held in Cardiff on Thursday 30 June.

Friends of the Earth Cymru has organised the meeting at Function Room F of Cardiff City Hall from 6 - 7.30 pm to explain people's rights under the new Freedom of Information Act and Environmental Information Regulations.

Phil Michaels, Friends of Earth's Legal Adviser will speak about the new laws. Christine Johnson, Senior Policy Manager at the Information Commissioner's Office in Wales will talk about the role of the Office. Both will answer questions from the public.

Julian Rosser, Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru commented,

"Information is power. Getting your hands on the right information is vital for anyone who wants to influence the way that their environment and communities develop.

"We have had hundreds of complaints over the years that local councils and government bodies are secretive and refuse to allow people access to information which should be made public. These new laws should shine some light on decision making and ensure that people can get hold of the information they need to make informed decisions and take part in the democratic process.

"We are pleased to be able to organise this event with such knowledgeable speakers who will be able to explain how people can use their rights."

A guide to using your Right to Know is also available online at: www.RightToKnowOnline.org

Notes

The Freedom of Information Act 2000 and Environmental Information Regulations 2004 came into force at the beginning of 2005. They give the public the right to see and get copies of huge amounts of information held by all public authorities and some private bodies.

The laws cover more than 100,000 public authorities including: Government departments, the Welsh Assembly, the Environment Agency, the Countryside Council for Wales , Welsh Development Agency, local authorities, NHS and the Police.

The laws also cover waste companies and privatised utility companies for environmental information.