Freedom of Information

The Freedom of Information Act 1997 came into operation in the Local Authority service with effect from 21st October, 1998. The Act asserts the right of members of the public to obtain access to official information to the greatest extent possible consistent with the public interest and the right to privacy of individuals.

Sections 15 & 16 of the Freedom of Information Act, 1997, require public bodies to publish information about themselves, the information they hold, and the internal rules and guidelines used in decision making. This Manual is prepared in accordance with the publication requirements set out in Section 15 of the Act.

The manual is intended as a practical guide to the functions and the services provided by Galway County Council and to assist the public in accessing the information which is held by the Council in relation to these functions.

The Manual is not a definitive description of all of the Council services and should further information on any service or item
be required, please contact the relevant section of the Council.

A separate Manual is also prepared in accordance with Section 16 of the Act which gives details of the rules and guidelines used by Galway County Council in implementing its schemes and programmes under each function. That Manual is also available for inspection.