Access to Information on the Environment
The access to information on the environment (AIE) regulations give citizens the right to access environmental information held by public authorities. The AIE Regulations came into effect on 1st May 2007, and have subsequently been amended. The relevant legislation is referred to as the European Communities (Access to Information on the Environment) Regulations 2007 to 2014.
The Regulations provide a definition of environmental information and outline the manner in which requests for information may be made by any person to public authorities. The Regulations also provide for a formal appeals procedure in the event that a person is unhappy with a decision on their request.
How do I make an AIE request?
If you wish to submit a request to the PSI under the European Communities (Access to Information on the Environment) Regulations 2007 to 2014 (AIE Regulations 2007-2014), please send your request by email to facilities@psi.ie or by post to AIE Officer, PSI, PSI House, 15-19 Fenian St, Dublin 2, D02 TD72.
When making a request for information you should:
- state that the application is being made under the AIE Regulations 2007-2014
- provide your contact details, including a daytime telephone number
- state your request for the environmental information in terms that are as specific as possible, and in what format you would prefer to receive it.
Decision on a request
Information may be granted in full or in part, and some exemptions exist where a body may decline to provide the information requested. Normally you will be notified of the decision within one month of receipt of the request.
What can I do if I am unhappy with a decision on my request?
If you are refused access to the environmental information you requested in whole or in part, or you believe your request was not properly dealt with in accordance with the provisions of the AIE Regulations 2007-2014, you may request the PSI to carry out an internal review. You should request this within one month of the original decision.
Fees
A request does not require payment of an upfront fee. However, a public authority may charge a reasonable fee to certain applications received, as provided for in S.I. 133 of 2007 and S.I. No. 662 of 2011.
Related information:
Access to information under the Freedom of Information Act