The Freedom of Information (FOI) Law, 2007, hereinafter referred to as “FOI Law” or “the Law” went into effect on 5th January 2009. The Law gives the public the right of access to information held by all public authorities in the Cayman Islands.
As one of the public authorities covered by Law, the National Housing Development Trust (NHDT) will be responsible for ensuring that the public has access to information held in all forms. The right to access is not unlimited; there are exemptions and some of these relate to the disclosure of information that would, for example, prejudice national security, defense or international relations; information that would prejudice the investigation of crime; information that would endanger someone’s physical or mental health or safety; information that would facilitate the escape of a person from detention or jeopardize prison security or personal information that is being requested in relation to a third party (if the person to whom that information relates to does not agree to allow access). Some of these exemptions are subject to a public interest test, however, they will always be considered on the basis of each individual request, with the balance in favour of disclosure at all times.
Making a Request
Those wishing to make a FOI request may do so by email to the Information Manager at foi.nhdt@gov.ky The Ombudsman's Office has developed a list of Frequently Asked Questions to guide and advise those making FOI requests. All requests should include the full contact information of the requester, as well as a full description of the information being sought. The Information Manager responds to all FOI requests received. https://www.nhdt.gov.ky/foi
The Ombudsman
The Ombudsman is the independent oversight body for FOI in the Cayman Islands. Among other duties, the quasi-judicial Office of the Ombudsman promotes general awareness of the FOI Law, handles complaints and appeals, monitors and reports on compliance, and makes general or specific recommendations for reform. You can learn more about FOI and the Ombudsman’s role at ombudsman.ky/foi.
The Information Rights Unit
The Information Rights Unit within the Cabinet Office coordinates support for Information Managers and other public servants, providing training and guidance concerning FOI and Data Protection. The team also promotes best practices within public authorities and develops policies, tools, and procedures for effectively implementing information rights legislation. If you are a public servant and want to learn more about your responsibilities under the FOI Law, please email InformationRights@gov.ky.
Publication Scheme
NHDT Board Minutes