How can public authorities properly manage FOI requests?

• A. By relying solely on legal counsel
• B. By ignoring problematic requests
• C. By implementing structured processes and training staff
• D. By reducing the number of requests accepted

Answer: (C)

The management of Freedom of Information (FOI) requests is critical for public authorities to ensure transparency and accountability. Implementing structured processes and training staff effectively prepares the organization to handle FOI requests efficiently and with compliance to the law.

Having structured processes means establishing clear guidelines and workflows for receiving, processing, and responding to requests. This helps in maintaining consistency, ensuring that all requests are addressed in a timely manner, and adhering to legal requirements.

Training staff is equally important, as it ensures that employees are knowledgeable about the FOI laws, understand their responsibilities, and are equipped with the skills needed to handle requests professionally. A well-trained team can better assess the validity of requests, determine the lines of communication with requesters, and manage sensitive information appropriately.

This comprehensive approach minimizes errors, enhances the organization's responsiveness, and fosters trust between the public and authorities. In contrast, relying solely on legal counsel or ignoring requests would not provide a systematic or proactive method for managing FOI responsibilities effectively. Reducing the number of requests accepted does not address the core issues of management and transparency that FOI aims to uphold.