SVGHRA launches Freedom of Information Act outreach programme

Several rural communities and tertiary institutions will be informed of the Freedom of Information Act over the next six months.

This is a part of the outreach project co-coordinated by the St. Vincent Human Rights Association (SVGHRA), in collaboration with the British Government. The project was officially launched on Thursday, October 28, 2010, during a press conference at the SVGHRA office.{{more}}

Public Relations Officer of the SVGHRA Jeanie Ollivierre stated that seven rural communities as well as tertiary institutions will be targeted in order to publicly educate persons on the Act. Ollivierre also stated that the SVGHRA will host at least one radio programme and one television programme per month.

Olliverre stated that the need for such a project came out of the realization that many Vincentians do not understand the Act and how it pertains to them.

President of the SVGHRA Nicole Sylvester further explained that the Act is crucial, as it has made the public aware that as citizens in the society, they are entitled to obtain information that is in the possession of public officers.

Sylvester added that the project, which is in its third phase, conducted training courses with members of the SVGHRA, stakeholders, members of the media and public servants in earlier phases.

Paul Brummell, British High Commissioner, making remarks, stated that the British Government decided to support the SVGHRA because of the importance of the role of the organization and the work of the SVGHRA in a range of human rights issues. He added that the British government gave their support as they consider transparency in government a crucial issue.

The Freedom of Information Act was passed on 27 June, 2003, and assented to on 15 December, 2003.(OS)