03/06/2026
Information Commission Conducts Training for Newly Appointed Information Officers
The Information Commission conducted a training session for newly appointed Information Officers on 20 May 2026.
The training was delivered by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ms Diana Benoit, and the Information Analyst (IA), Ms Mina Accouche, with support from the Records Officer, Ms Mina Labiche. The session formed part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the implementation of the Access to Information Act, 2018 (ATIA) across public bodies.
The training provided participants with an overview of the Access to Information Act, 2018 and the important role Information Officers play in promoting transparency, accountability, and access to information within their organisations. Participants were guided through the duties and responsibilities of Information Officers, including the processing of requests for information, record keeping requirements, proactive disclosure obligations, and the preparation of Information Manuals and Annual Reports.
The session also covered key procedures for handling requests for information, including statutory timelines, extensions, reviews, refusals, and requests involving third parties. Particular emphasis was placed on ensuring compliance with the Act while balancing the need to protect information that may be exempt from disclosure. Topics such as personal information, commercial confidentiality, law enforcement, national security, international relations, and privileged information were discussed through practical examples.
In addition, participants were introduced to the Commission’s audit and compliance functions, common areas of non-compliance identified during audits, and the penalties that may apply where public bodies fail to meet their obligations under the Act. The training highlighted the importance of proper record management, timely responses to requests, and maintaining adequate documentation to support transparency and accountability.
