Strategic Plan 2008 - 2012
The Scottish Information Commissioner, Kevin Dunion, was reappointed in February 2008, for his second term, which will run until 2012.
In May 2008, the Commissioner published his strategic plan, setting out the vision for his final four years in office, and the strategic themes which will inform the development of operational plans to deliver his aims.
The Key Strategic Themes
There are 6 themes in the plan:
- Case closure: Investigative capacity will be used to significantly reduce the journey time to closure. Although applications have levelled out (projected at c400 in 08/09) they are expected to upturn in the period - and significantly so if new public bodies are designated.
- Compliance: Resources will be dedicated to investigate the practice of public authorities and to identify measures to improve compliance with the Act and Codes of Practice
- Awareness: Specific sectors of society will be targeted to ensure that they are aware of their rights and the potential use of FOISA/EIRs.
- Practice: Build knowledge of and promote good practice by authorities and applicants through research, publication scheme approval and a reference group of key specialists.
- Development: Beneficial changes to legislation, regulation and codes will be identified e.g., designation of additional authorities. We will address areas of uncertainty regarding the application of the legislation
- Reference: Publish detailed reference material bringing together our experience and approach in publications, drawing upon our interpretation of law, international comparisons, platform decisions, legal advice, Court cases, and evidence of good and bad practice.
Operational Plans
Each year, the Commissioner also publishes an annual Operational Plan, which sets out the specific programme of activity he will follow over the year, in pursuit of the key strategic themes as set out in the four year plan.