Transparency Score: 59/100
Response Timeline
Initial Response
30 days
Extension
30 days
Residency Required
False
30 calendar days from receipt (Section 7(2)). Extension of up to 30 additional days if request requires search through large volume of records or consultations needed (Section 7(4)). Must notify requester of extension within initial 30 days.
No residency or citizenship requirement. Section 6(1) grants the right to "every person" to obtain access to official documents.
How to Submit a Request
Accepted Methods
Fees
Exemptions
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Cabinet DocumentsDocuments of Cabinet or Cabinet committees (Section 14)
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National SecurityDocuments affecting national security, defence, or international relations (Section 15)
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Law EnforcementDocuments relating to law enforcement (Section 16)
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Legal PrivilegeLegally privileged documents (Section 17)
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PrivacyDocuments containing personal information (Section 22)
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Commercial InterestsTrade secrets and commercially valuable information (Section 18)
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Financial/EconomicDocuments that could affect the economy or financial interests of Jamaica (Section 19)
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Internal WorkingDocuments relating to internal working of public authorities (Section 20)
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OperationsDocuments that would prejudice operations of a public authority (Section 21)
Appeal Process
1
Step 1
Review by responsible minister within 30 days of refusal (Section 29). Decision within 30 days.
2
Step 2
Appeal to the Access to Information Appeal Tribunal within 60 days (Section 31). Independent quasi-judicial body. Hearings may be held. Decision is binding.
3
Step 3
Appeal to the Supreme Court on a point of law from Tribunal decision (Section 34).
Request Templates
Standard Request
Under the Access to Information Act, 2002, I request access to the following documents: [DESCRIPTION]. Preferred format: [FORMAT]. Contact: [NAME, ADDRESS, EMAIL, PHONE].