About FOI

The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2014 was introduced to help access official information to records created after 21st October 1998.

The act gives you the legal right to:

• access information held by public bodies
• have official information relating to you amended where it is incomplete, incorrect or misleading
• be informed of reasons for decisions that affect them

Submit an FOI Request

It is preferable that you makebu a request using the standard Freedom of Information Application (251kB) Form . Your request should be in writing and should indicate that the information is sought under the Freedom of Information Act. Applications can be submitted by post or email to the addresses listed below). ‌

The form is also availbale to download in Irish: FOI Application form As Gaeilge (23kB)

If you have difficulty in identifying the precise records which you require, we will be happy to assist you in preparing your request.

Applications for information under this Act should be addressed to:

Freedom Of Information Officer,

Westmeath County Council,

Áras an Chontae,

Mullingar,

Co.Westmeath.

Email: foi@westmeathcoco.ie

Cost

There is no longer an initial application fee, but the following fees aply in respect of reviews

Internal Review

The Fee for Internal Review under Section 21 is now €30.00 (€10.00 for medical card holders and their dependents).

Independent Review

If, after an internal review, you are still not satisfied with the decision you may seek an independent review, the fee for this is €50.00 (€15.00 for medical card holders and their dependents) for non personal requests, by contacting the Information Commissioner...

By Post: Office of the Information Commisioner, 18 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2, D04 K5F3
Email: ombudsman@ombudsman.irlgov.ie
Telephone: (01) 678 5222